Discusses online search techniques that can be used to identify inaccuracies and inconsistencies in records of online and CD-ROM databases. Methods that can be used to sample a database for errors in descriptor, name, or coded fields are described, including browsing, matching, looking up cross-references, and searching for implausible record…

This text is intended as a guide for searching ERIC using the SilverPlatter CD-ROM database. The text describes the content and function of the ERIC database and demonstrates fundamental search techniques by following an example of a successful ERIC computer search. The search begins with the choice of a topic, the formulation of a search…

The purpose of these guidelines is to assist librarians in providing students and faculty with appropriate information about computerized sources of information, particularly national online and compact disc (CD-ROM) databases. The guidelines offer ideas for brief, medium-length, and long presentations on the use of online searches, including…

Highlights some popular search engines and presents guidelines on making queries, narrowing a search, using quotation marks and how and when to used advanced searches. Discusses special search tools for World Wide Web and CD-ROM products and homework assistance software. Lists the network locations of five popular search engines. (AEF)

Explores the 1988 "Books in Print Plus" (BIP Plus) CD-ROM database to determine broad characteristics of material currently in print in U.S. book trade in terms of publication year; price; language; and audience, grade level, and illustration. Accuracy and potential of BIP Plus as a tool for generating data and testing hypotheses…

This two-page paper is an instructional guide for the use of the DIALOG OnDisc version of ERIC on CD-ROM in a university library. It is noted that the computer with which the guide is to be used provides access to citations of documents and journal articles in the ERIC database from 1980 to the present. Instructions are provided in a sequential,…

Discusses searching techniques in print indexes and describes the development of computer-assisted search (CAS) services and CD-ROM systems that focus on education. The ERIC database and other databases for education-related information are described, advantages of online searching are discussed, and the question of who should conduct the search…

An analysis of 275 searches of a LISA (Library and Information Science Abstracts) CD-ROM conducted by 67 master's students determined that different cognitive styles (comprehension, operation, versatile, field dependent, and field independent) resulted in different search behaviors and search outcomes, with and without postings information.…

Discusses the changing relationship between information professionals (vendors, database producers, and searchers) and end users during the last three decades. Examines the concept of the end user, including professionals; libraries; end user searchers; DIALOG and BRS; ease of use issues; search intermediaries; menu-driven systems; and CD-ROM…

Describes the CD-ROM version of the "Congressional Masterfile," a comprehensive index of congressional committee reports and prints, hearings, and documents from 1789 to the present. The description of this product includes hardware and software considerations, user aids, and search options. The Masterfile CD-ROM is compared to print…

Evaluates the Library and Information Science Abstracts on optical data disk available through SilverPlatter Information Inc. The criteria discussed include installation instructions; ease of use; retrieval facilities; the results of a test search; the screen display; documentation; characteristics of the database; and cost and updating. (CLB)

Discusses CD-ROM databases in college libraries and lists several ways to make local periodical holdings easily identifiable to users. Topics include standard inputting formats for library databases; updating databases; search strategies; and suggestions for teaching techniques to improve search effectiveness. (five references) (SLW)

Briefly describes DIALOG OnDisc and gives an example of an actual search of the ERIC database using this system. The screen displays and search commands are used to illustrate the differences between the easy menu search method provided for novice users and the command search method provided for experienced users. (CLB)

Describes and compares several general interest periodical indexes available on CD-ROM. Features described include target audience, coverage, updates, subscription prices, licensing, the availability of turnkey systems, search features and interfaces, screen displays, full-text support, and installation and support. The addresses of the companies…

The discrete forms of knowledge required for successful use of interactive information systems are investigated. Achievement of three forms of knowledge among novice users of a CD-ROM encyclopedia was examined. Tasks measured users' knowledge and skills in managing/controlling the system, navigating between information nodes, and selecting…