After six years of research in computer assisted instruction (CAI) using PLATO III, a decision was made at the University of Illinois to develop a larger system as a national CAI resource. This document describes the design specifications and problems in the development of PLATO IV, a system which is capable of accomodating up to 4,000 terminals…

Progress on the development of a mathematical model and associated computer programs for use by the Illinois State Library in evaluation and planning of the interlibrary loan (ILL) network is summarized. Pertinent published literature on ILL networks is reviewed in terms of network structure, operations, satisfaction of requests, and costs. A flow…

A manipulandum-referenced taxonomy for response categories appropriate to primary education is presented. The tenability of automatic on-line evaluation of the different types of response when processing equipment of the sort that probably will be available to Southwest Regional Laboratory is preliminarily evaluated. (Author/SK)

Computer-assisted instruction supplements traditional methods in a non-calculus physics course offered at Seattle Pacific College. Thirty-five science majors enrolled in the first quarter and 32 continued in the second term. The hardware for the course consists of a PDP-11/20 computer and eight teletype terminals; additional peripheral equipment…

The major features of Computer Managed Instruction (CMI) are diagnosis and testing, analysis, record keeping, and prescription. Diagnosis and testing are used to evaluate each student's performance at regular intervals. The results are analyzed to update the student's record and provide a prescription which suggests the learning process the…

The Midwest Regional MEDLARS Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan which was established in April 1966 and terminated in April 1972 is described. The Center implemented MEDLARS Demand Search service in December 1967. During its years of operation, the Michigan MEDLARS Center formulated and released 4,823 Demand Searches. The searches originated from: the…

This report examines the knowledge and experience gained from the implementation of three PLATO IV terminal devices: the microfiche system, the touch panel, and the random-access audio device. These devices, when attached to a PLATO IV terminal, serve to expand the types of input and output which can be managed by the terminal. For each peripheral…

Proposes that the concept of the traditional reference desk as the center of reference services in academic libraries is a tradition that should be examined in light of new technologies and changes in the way people find and use information. An alternative or supplementary model is delineated. (Author/CDD)

Computers have a place within the teaching of English. Specifically, the computer can promote collaborative talk and learning in the context of simulations, word processing, and information handling. (Author/CH)

Discusses the advantages of conducting online computer searches of "Chemical Abstracts." Introduces the logical sequences involved in searching an online database. Explains Boolean logic, proximity operators, truncation, searchable fields, and command language, as they relate to the use of online searches in undergraduate chemistry…

Outlines evaluative criteria and compares optical data disk products used in library technical processes, including bibliographic records for cataloging, acquisition databases, and local public access catalogs. An extensive table provides information on specific products, including updates, interfaces, edit screens, installation help, manuals,…

Three articles discuss various aspects of computers in elementary education: (1) the use of electronic information services with elementary students in Maryland; (2) the introduction of computers into classrooms with students aged 10-12 in Switzerland; and (3) the use of microcomputer-based simulation in the United Kingdom to encourage…

This basic introduction to three types of computer communications that school libraries can use describes bulletin board systems, information utilities, and bibliographic database systems. Examples are given of applications that would be useful for students and teachers. (EM)

Discussion of knowledge-based technology highlights the ability of knowledge systems to integrate training and support for computer users in business offices. This type of expert system would use a common-knowledge base for computer-based training, online documentation, print documentation, and help systems for both experienced and novice users.…

This article defines three separate categories of microcomputers--personal, desk-top, multi-user devices--and relates storage capabilities (expandability, floppy disks) to library applications. Highlghts include de facto standards, operating systems, database management systems, applications software, circulation control systems, dumb and…