Questions whether the world presented in interactive fiction is a "literary one." Defines "literariness" as quality of "making strange" that which is linguistically familiar. Randall presents study of: "Mindwheel,""Brimstone,""Breakers,""A Mind Forever…

Discussion of the information age and optical publishing focuses on the newly formed Optical Publishing Association (OPA) and its goals and objectives. The role of CD-ROMs is examined, and the value of information both to the industry and to the consumer is discussed. (LRW)

Discusses the impact of computers on the art community. Topics discussed include merging technology with art, full color graphics on personal computers, commercial painting software, graphic design, visual flexibility, programing, the computer as an art medium unto itself, cost factors, and benefits to art instructors. (LRW)

Suggests some ways to enhance the user-friendliness of many Macintosh (personal computer) foreign language character fonts with the aid of three commercial programs: MacKeymeleon; FONTastic Plus; and Tempo. (Author/CB)

This bibliography lists 754 books and articles which focus on programs that can run on IBM microcomputers and compatibles using PC DOS/MS DOS, and that can be used in online information and documentation work. An index lists the software packages alphabetically by title and references them to the main entries, which are listed by author. (CLB)

Discussion of how learner and teacher communicate in distance education focuses on Morre's concept of transactional distance in light of recent developments in telecommunications. Integrated telecommunications systems are described, adult learning and instructional transactions are discussed, and system dynamics are presented as a tool for…

Describes computer software, including "The Electronic Bookshelf" and "Return to Reading," which provides motivation for recreational reading in various ways, including: quizzes, games based on books, and whole language activities for children's literature and young adult fiction. (MM)

Presents a model for electronic books based on the paper book metaphor. Discussion includes how the book evolves under the effects of its functional components; the use and impact of the model for organizing and presenting electronic documents in the context of electronic publishing; and the possible applications of a system based on the model.…

Compares information requirement-elicitation (IRE) methods for decision support systems (DSS) with knowledge acquisition (KA) methods for expert systems (ES) development. The definition and architectures of ES and DSS are compared and the systems' development cycles and IRE/KA methods are discussed. Differences are noted between ES and DSS…

This second in a two-part series on Data Research Associates, a vendor for turnkey automatic library systems, focuses on hardware and software. Highlights include the requirement for VAX hardware; software modules that relate to MARC records; the Library System menu structure; training opportunities; user comments; and future directions. (LRW)

Contains an illustration and text to aid in describing the DynaPulse 200M Education Edition microcomputer-based laboratory (MBL), which combines interactive software with curriculum and medical instruction to teach students about the cardiovascular system. Review includes key features of the software, cost, and ease of use. (ZWH)

Presents results of searching seven World Wide Web (WWW) databases with the same three questions and evaluates the performance of each database in answering the questions. Tables show search results and basic database information. Sidebars list WWW databases not studied and address the future of Web searching and fee-based WWW databases. (JMV)

Examines The Internet Adapter (TIA), an Internet protocol that allows computers to be directly on the Internet and access graphics over standard telephone lines using high-speed modems. Compares TIA's system requirements, performance, and costs to other Internet connections. Sidebars describe connections other than TIA and how to find information…

Identifies and describes methods of compiling datasets, search interfaces and etymological metaphors and mythologies of three of the first generation of automated indexing systems: archie, veronica, and robots and search engines. (Author/JKP)

Discusses Internet resources on subjects related to the Chinese, both in English and Chinese: discussion groups; news; literature and linguistics; social studies; East Asian Studies programs, departments, and libraries; Chinese computer issues; cultural activities; weather; business; art; and entertainment. Hardware and software requirements…