This newsletter presents an introduction to the Internet. A definition of the Internet and its three principle uses--electronic mail, USENET newsgroups, and information files--are provided. A discussion on how to explore the Internet includes equipment needs, university Internet accounts, commercial vendors, navigating the Internet through the…

This book provides descriptions of approximately 270 CD-ROM packages and series, and references to dozens of others, all which are especially suitable for libraries. Organized by subject, entries include the vendor price (when available), platform and hardware requirements, and availability of network versions. In addition, evaluative comments…

This paper reviews two of the United Kingdom's national programs to promote the use of computer-based teaching throughout higher education. In the first phase (1985-89) of the Computers in Teaching Initiative (CTI), a suite of 139 individual software-production projects generally failed to meet expectations. In 1989, CTI became a network of…

The availability of digital multimedia technology poses new challenges to researchers, authors, and educators, even as it creates new opportunities for communication. VideoScheme, a prototype video programming environment is described, along with its applications in research, authoring and education. In terms of research, VideoScheme can help…

As an instructional technology, cognitive apprenticeship has become increasingly important. Cognitive apprenticeship embeds the acquisition of knowledge and skills in their social and functional context and consists of six teaching methods: modelling, coaching, scaffolding, articulation, reflection, and exploration. SMALLTALKER is a…

Patron service is a high priority in the library setting and alleviating a large percentage of the directional questions will provide librarians with more time to help patrons more thoroughly than they are able to currently. Furthermore, in view of the current economic trend of downsizing, a navigational computer system program has the potential…

The history of instructional multimedia systems development includes many difficulties--authorial uncertainty about how to order concepts, the misplaced focus of so-called "intelligent tutors," the sometimes disconcerting proliferation of products, and financial constraints. Against this background, this paper discusses the project which…

This paper evaluates four tools for creating World Wide Web pages that interface with Microsoft Access databases: DB Gateway, Internet Database Assistant (IDBA), Microsoft Internet Database Connector (IDC), and Cold Fusion. The system requirements and features of each tool are discussed. A sample application, "The Virtual Help Desk"…

This guide highlights the basic operation of software that provides a framework and tools for students to encounter computer-based multimedia reviews of the books the have read independently given minimal equipment and expertise, and suggests ways to go beyond the basic operation for those who have the capability to do so. After a background and…

Many reference librarians still rely on manual searches to access vertical files, ready reference files, and other information stored in card files, drawers, and notebooks scattered around the reference department. Automated access to these materials via microcomputers using database management software may speed up the process. This study focuses…

This book is geared for beginners in the use of personal computers for everyday academic purposes. The information is generic, and is not directed exclusively to IBM users, Macintosh users or NeXT users. The chapters focus on the following topics: (1) introduction to the purpose of the book; (2) personal computer systems such as hardware and…

This training material provides the reader with information on the installation of and instruction in the use of the on-line Novell Netware V2.15 training software, and consists of an Instructor's Guide and Student Handouts. The instructor's guide includes the following sections: system requirements; installation; starting the tutorial; completing…

This guide reviews the basic principles of Internet exploration for the novice user, describing various functions and utilizing "onscreen" displays. The introduction explains what the Internet is, and provides historical information. The introduction is followed by a listing of Internet hardware and software (freeware and shareware),…

Like a table of contents in print material, a computer-presented menu presents information. It informs a user of the topics that are available. Some menus present information by categories and thus communicate the organization as well as the content of the program. In addition to providing information, menus serve as a selection and retrieval…

A diagnostic testing system managed by microcomputer was evaluated in actual use at the upper elementary level. Two tests specifically designed to yield diagnostic indicators of erroneous performance were utilized, one a test of pronoun usage, the other a test of reading comprehension. The results are interpreted from the standpoint of the…