Presents a model for the design of online catalog subject access based on three principles: the uncertainty of subject indexing, the need for greater variety in searcher's queries, and the complexity of the search process. The proposed system is based on existing Library of Congress subject cataloging. (EM)

Reviews seven commercially produced test generator programs appropriate for use by classroom teachers or individual instructors and identifies item construction and test formatting features that facilitate test design and delivery. Test generator programs and their manufacturers are listed. (MBR)

Discusses factors that should be considered by buyers and producers of databases on CD-ROM (compact disc-read only memory). The advantages and disadvantages of CD-ROM are also discussed and compared with those of magnetic and print media, and market projections are provided. (CLB)

Examines the effects of new technologies on scholarly communications, including changes in scholarly research and writings, the publishing industry, documentation of scholarly works, and users of records of scholarship. The research library's responsibility to collect, preserve, and make available records of scholarship is also discussed. (CLB)

Description of the conversion of San Diego State University Library's Asian collection from catalog cards to online catalog through OCLC discusses technical problems involved in creating databases with Chinese, Japanese, and Korean vernacular characters. Ambiguities created by romanization and decision to convert the collection only in romanized…

Based on manual observation of 187 zero result online searches at a university library, this article addresses three types of problems that can produce such search results: multiple database searching, topic negotiation, and database availability. A summary of conceptual and practical recommendations for searchers are provided. (6 references) (EJS)

This overview of optical videodisc technology focuses on microcomputer-based applications for information processing. Topics discussed include fundamentals of videodisc technology, interactive videodisc technology, and associated hardware systems; government-supported and commercial videodisc and CD ROM information projects; and speculations on…

Describes two research projects based on QUEST and proposes an information handling model. Design, interrogation, and evaluation of data files are discussed relative to restraints imposed by child's developmental stage and nature of software employed. Implications of computer-related information handling for curriculum design and children's…

Traditional methods of studying and evaluating use of online public access catalogs (OPACs) are discussed and compared to verbal protocol method (spoken records of people describing their work that uncover detailed data about thinking during problem solving). Results of Carnegie-Mellon University protocol study of OPAC users are discussed. (22…

Based on questionnaires collected from 1980 to mid-1984, this study evaluates user satisfaction with online reference services at Northern Illinois University Library. Highlights include frequency of databases searched, relevance of references, search value, defining and measuring information needs, and suggestions for improvement of service and…

Presents a search strategy for locating time-series or cross-sectional statistical data in published sources which was designed for undergraduate students who require 30 units of data for five separate variables in a statistical model. Instructional context and the broader applicability of the search strategy for general statistical research is…

Describes three ways in which libraries use computers to enhance reference services: "Answers," the community information and referral service at Memorial Hall Library, Andover, Massachusetts; the Hot Topics File at State University of New York/Oswego, Penfield Library; and features of RLIN and WLN databases which make them valuable…

This examination of misunderstandings between librarians and teaching faculty over concepts of library use and research concludes that library skills and research skills are essentially different things that can be learned in isolation from each other. Implications of these findings for bibliographic instruction and library policies are discussed.…

Discusses design, development, and use of a database to provide organization and access to a computer software collection at the University of Hawaii School of Library Studies. Field specifications, samples of report forms, and a description of the physical organization of the software collection are included. (MBR)

Provides a glimpse into future uses of videotex in schools, libraries, and homes and reviews the present status of this important educational tool. Several videotex applications which educators have failed to fully utilize are discussed. (MBR)