The following topics are included in this document: (1) evaluation of plans for implementation of new systems; (2) macroevaluation of document retrieval systems; (3) microevaluation of retrospective searching; (4) evaluation of document acquisition functions; evluation of indexing and indexing languages; (5) evaluation of document screening; (6)…

Three specific contributions to the field of information retrieval are presented. The first two describe the establishment of an adaptive, interactive man-machine dialogue that produces a form of unsolicited librarian-like assistance for the user in his selection of index terms to characterize an indexing function. The data set upon which the…

A description is provided of GUIDE-0, an experimental information system. The system serves as a bibliographic aid for students who are taking introductory computer science courses whose material is at least partially implemented via PLATO-IV lessons. Following a brief introduction to the system in Chapter I, the second Chapter describes the…

Analog/hybrid terminals may be superior to conversational mode terminals for teaching engineering because they allow more computer/student interaction. This paper defines requirements for an analog computer terminal system to be used to teach system dynamics. There are seven requirements for such terminals: capability to vary at least five…

A question answering system which permits a computer-assisted instruction (CAI) student greater initiative in the variety of questions he can ask is described. A method is presented to represent the dynamic processes of a subject matter area by augmented finite state automata, which permits efficient inferencing about dynamic processes and…

A major thesis is propounded: The acquisition of the vocational role in life can be considerably improved by further incorporating vocational education and development into liberal education. The work of Ashcraft on career development and curriculum and that of Crites on vocational maturation are cited and provide the backdrop against which the…

Studies of natural dialogue indicate that people interact according to established patterns which are organized around the participants' goals. These patterns have been represented by a set of knowledge structures called "Dialogue-games" which are founded on conventional knowledge about communication and its uses to achieve goals. The…

Discusses discoveries and applications of science that have enabled the computer industry to introduce new technology each year and produce 25 percent more for the customer at constant cost. Potential limits to progress, disc storage technology, programming and end-user interface, and designing for ease of use are considered. Glossary is included.…

Describes the interactive computer Project BARN (developed by University of Wisconsin Center for Health Systems Research and Analysis) that provides health information to adolescents practicing high-risk behaviors in sensitive areas of human sexuality, drugs, and cigarette smoking. Poses the question that such interaction could be a compromise…

Presents a four-stage hypothesis of information systems development based on computational capability, storage capability, communications capability, and effective voice input. Moore's Law and Mooers' Law are explained, the interface between the system and the user is discussed, and projections for the future are suggested. (21 references)…

Data were gathered at nine academic and research libraries to study processing components of nine integrated systems for support of bibliographic and item-record creation and maintenance. System support for basic processing functions, flexibility, ease of use, and effect of system design on work flow are examined and results are charted. (CDD)

Describes the use of electronic spreadsheet software for library decision support systems using personal computers. Discussion covers templates, formulas for allocating the materials budget, LOTUS 1-2-3 and budget allocations, choosing a formula, the spreadsheet itself, graphing capabilities, and advantages and disadvantages of templates. Six…

This last of a five-part series on using the IBM personal computer for online searching highlights a brief review, search process, making the connection, switching between screens and modes, online transaction, capture buffer controls, coping with options, function keys, script files, processing downloaded information, note to TELEX users, and…

A laserdisc periodical index (InfoTrac) that offers relatively sophisticated search capabilities without librarian assistance or user training is now popular college library research tool. The index database consists of more than half million references to articles and reviews published since 1982 in 1,000 general interest, business, and technical…

Describes use of microcomputers with system called "TBBS" ("The Bread Board System") at Loma Linda University Medical Center to allow users enhanced services from home, whether library facilities are open or not. Flexibility and security, dialing into medical library, and suggestions for setting up similar computerized…