Discusses issues relating to microcomputer software user interfaces: (1) accessibility; (2) ease of learning versus speed and flexibility; (3) arrogant versus accommodating software; (4) file management capabilities; and (5) widespread software inconveniences including copy protection, poor use of subdirectories, and bad text. (MES)

An experimental framework for observing an indexing task carried out in a laboratory environment and an initial indexing experiment that explored a methodology for aiding, rather than replacing, the indexer are described. (12 references) (Author/KE)

Highlights the customary arbitrariness with which the terms "syntax" and "semantics," and hence "understanding" are applied, and leads to a more systematic application of these concepts. The question of why one notation (grammar, syntax) is more useful than another is raised, and an answer is suggested. (Author/VT)

Critically reviews the different types of abstractions and implementations in the area of hypertext and proposes the existence of three types of hypertext: small, medium, and large volume. Each type of hypertext is described, human-computer interaction is considered, and a movement toward intelligent hypertext is discussed. (48 references) (LRW)

Discusses pervasive, or ubiquitous, computing; explains the notion of context; and defines context-aware computing as the key to disperse and enmesh computation into our lives. Considers context awareness in human-computer interaction and describes the broad topic areas of the essays included in this special issue. (LRW)

We present the Personal Learning Environment (PLE) as a practical intervention concerning the organization of technology in education. We explain this by proposing a cybernetic model of the "Personal Learner" using Beer's Viable System Model (VSM). Using the VSM, we identify different regulatory mechanisms that maintain viability for learners, and…

"The Computer Revolution", a part of the "Second Industrial Revolution", is examined with reference to the social consequences of computers. The subject is introduced in an opening section which discusses the revolution in the handling of information and the history, powers, uses, and working s of computers. A second section examines in detail the…

It is proposed that the conversational language used in interactive retrieval systems should become standard, at least as far as the technical terms and symbols used by the user are concerned. If that effort is successful, a standards efforts in the area of a code of practice or recommended methods for operation could be developed. (Author)

Describes features and enhancements of the EasyNet end-user gateway software including the addition of more databanks, improved help for searchers, field searching, online help from humans, and scanning for database selection. Capabilities of the Common Command Language are discussed. Figures show a database scan, EasyNet commands, and a sample…

Techniques for providing interaction of the student with media. Includes development process and specific suggestions. (LS)

Discussion of human-computer interaction and planned action focuses on the belief that it is impossible to consider an action without an a priori plan, even according to the phenomenological position taken for granted by the situated action theory. Reports results of a quasi-experiment that focused on plan deviation within an information seeking…

Discusses the use of hypertext as an instructional tool and compares hypertext instruction with traditional instructional formats. Instructional design guidelines for hypertext are presented that focus on learner control, multiuser management, user interface, knowledge organization, and content representation. Limitations of learner control as an…

The danger of computers is not that people will be controlled by them but that they may imitate them, mistaking data for wisdom. Unobstructed access to facts can produce unlimited good only if matched by the desire and ability to discover what they mean and where they would lead. (MSE)

Addresses the question of how to write computer programs using explicit knowledge and rules-based systems. Highlights include the knowledge representation tool; the knowledge base on programming; and results of experiments that tested the system. Appendices include the set of rules for the experimental knowledge base and details of two…