Describes the scope, objectives, and status of a study of user responses to public online catalogs conducted in 1982 with Council on Library Resources (CLR) funding. The framework for evaluating the user-catalog interface, data collection, and questionnaire content are discussed, and a copy of the survey questionnaire is appended. (Author/JL)

Describes the development of telephone communications links between automated circulation systems in six public library systems in the state of Maryland, and discusses the implications of such links for interlibrary loan programs. (JL)

This introduction to online numeric database systems describes the types of databases associated with such systems, shows the major functions which they can perform (retrieval, analysis, display), and identifies the major characteristics of user interfaces. Examples of numeric database use are appended. (EJS)

Provides a step-by-step guide to creating an interactive video program, using technology that allows a computer program to control a video program, and discusses the concept, the equipment (microcomputer, videoplayer, and video interface card), and the process involved. A buyer's guide to video interface cards is included. (EJS)

Looks at the social and psychological effects on users of the introduction of online catalogs in libraries, examines several major changes in public and professional use of the catalog that result from online systems, and examines some of the unintended social effects of each of these changes. Three references are listed. (EJS)

Discusses rise of videotex and teletext systems (delivery of graphic and textual information through electronic systems) in the United States, noting the role of libraries and librarians in providing these services. Corporate involvement, U.S. markets, library reference services, and major issues confronting growth are noted. Two references are…

Describes the Commercial Update and Retrieval System (CURS), part of an instructional resource program implemented at Virginia Tech that enables students to locate, categorize, critique, or redesign any of 1,000 television commercials which were previously stored on 16mm film reels. The systems software and its instructional implications are…

This discussion of the current use and development of computer based, automated teaching systems (AOS) in the USSR includes a description of the pedagogical and technical aspects of a new unified AOS currently under development. A bibliography of 11 items is included. (CHC)

The current status of MELVYL, the University of California's prototype online catalog, is described in a hypothetical conversation between the catalog and several users. Examples illustrate features of the two search modes available for this patron-accessed system: COMMAND for the novice, and the more sophisticated LOOKUP. (RBF)

Summarizes the key research issues and developments in cognitive science, especially with respect to the similarities, differences, and interrelationships between human and machine information processing. Nine references are listed. (JL)

Shortcomings of management information systems in managerial functions are often attributed to differences between "left brain" activities performed by machines and "right brain" activities performed in decision making. It is argued that academic management information systems should incorporate and recognize both kinds of activity. (MSE)

Suggestions are given for improving speed, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of postal service for institutional mailings such as publications. Delivery times, postal service administration, rate increases, and postal priorities are outlined. (MSE)

Using welding as an example, this article describes how microelectronic devices, in conjunction with human supervision, help alleviate the problems of decreasing levels of productivity. (LRA)

An experimental test of the self-paced interactive PLATO computer-based Dilemma Counseling System (PLATO DCS) was conducted. PLATO DCS counseling resulted in greater improvement in clients than did counseling in controlled conditions. Subjects rated the PLATO DCS as interesting and not too impersonal. (Author)

The PLATO computer-based Dilemma Counseling System teaches a generic method for solving life-choice problems and counsels persons regarding current psychological dilemmas. The solution components contain 69 representative life-choice problems and 400 specific and general solutions to assist users in solving psychological dilemmas. (Author)