Retrieval experiments with the Cranfield collection of 1,400 documents used strategies based on a probabilistic model for an initial search and intermediate search when no relevant documents were known. Results show initial strategy is better than conventional strategies in retrieval effectiveness and number of queries needed to retrieve…

Reviews the development of a fault tolerant database processor system which replaced OCLC's conventional file system. A general introduction to database management systems and the operating environment is followed by a description of the hardware selection, software processes, and system characteristics. (SW)

Computer-based education provides adult educators with an interactive and self-paced medium which has pedagogical and cost advantages. Applications of such educational technology must be an integral part of the instruction process. (Author/SK)

Presents an overview of nonbibliographic computerized databases in business and economics, science and technology, and the social sciences, and discusses some major issues in the field. (FM)

Description of AVLINE, a computerized information system that lists audiovisual materials in a broad or specific health-related area. It contains information about nonprint instructional materials in two categories: (1) instructional packages and (2) documentation of scheduled educational events. (JOW)

CHOICES is a computerized career information system which provides students with career exploration activities, specific occupational information, and career comparisons. Career counseling and planning services are using CHOICES both as an alternative to traditional methods and as a marketing device. (SK)

Discusses programed instruction as a technique for teaching the fundamentals of monographic searching on the OCLC database, the method used in developing the instructional text, the series of validation tests conducted, and some suggestions for future research. (Author/FM)

Reports the results of a survey about the teaching of computer programing and online searching of databases taught in American Library Association accredited library schools. (Author/FM)

Identifies several common attitudes of institutions, trainees, and trainers regarding the training of a backup searcher. Ten tips are given for dealing with the less-than-perfect training situation, with recommendations (depending on the combination of attitudes) for internal or external training, or both. (SW)

Suggests that catalogs of the future, as facilitated by computer technology, should take on multiple formats. Three levels of varying form and size are envisioned for the needs and uses of the librarian, the general user, and the individual user. (Author/RAA)

Discusses the results of a 1979 survey of Canadian libraries in postsecondary education to determine the extent to which library automation is being used. (CHC)

The 1980s offer libraries numerous automated acquisitions alternatives, including turnkey systems from circulation system vendors and the acquisition subsystems of the bibliographic utilities. Integration of systems from several sources poses the principal problem. (Author/RAA)

Presents an overview of automated library acquisitions with emphasis on vendor developed systems. The article provides definitions, a description of an ideal system, a selection procedure for optimal purchasing decisions, and predictions for the future. An evaluation sheet and checklist are included. (RAA)

Findings of a longitudinal study indicate high success rates for OCLC as a source of cataloging copy. They further suggest that holding patterns for many types of materials may be unnecessary. (Author/RAA)

Reviews research findings on the effects of user fees in online searching, and concludes that charging does discourage use of computerized retrieval systems. It is recommended that alternatives to direct user fees be sought whenever possible. (SW)