Problems involved in searching multiple data bases are discussed including indexing differences, overlap among data bases, variant spellings, and elimination of duplicate items from search output. Discussion focuses on CA Condensates, Inspec, and Metadex data bases. (J PF)

The need to search several files to obtain the maximum information on energy is emphasized. Energyline, APILIT, APIPAT, PIE News, TULSA, NTIS, and Chemical Abstracts Condensates files are described. (KP)

This article discusses some concepts of business information and surveys some online business data bases, notably the Predicasts data bases. Business applications of other categories of data bases are also discussed. (Author/KP)

Description of Cathode Ray (CRT) Terminals examined for selection by the Research Libraries group and how they appeared to meet research library needs and specified requirements. Similar discussion for hard-copy printers is presented. (Author/KP)

Two basic data processing concepts are described: data elements (consisting of bits, bytes, fields, records, and files) and binary characters (standards, hex value, and extended character sets--Greek letters, superscripts, and subscripts). Use of machine-readable data in the OCLC-MARC database is noted. (EJS)

Describes the Canadian On Line Enquiry (CAN/OLE) system. (PF)

Describes the on-line automation of reserve loans at Elizabeth Dafoe Library of the University of Manitoba. (PF)

This paper reviews studies of information dissemination as a basis for determining how on-line retrieval can best compete with a multitude of other sources of references. (22 references) (Author/SJ)

Provides a chart showing differences (as of November 1979) in basic indexes for a number of databases that are available on two or more systems, such as DIALOG, ORBIT, and BRS. For each database, fields that are searched when a single unqualified search term is entered are listed. (Author/JD)

Describes the STATUS information retrieval system, which is a free text, Boolean-type system, concentrating on recent developments and improvements. The use of pre- and postprocessors is discussed, and how STATUS can be integrated into existing information systems is illustrated. An appendix lists selected users and applications. (Author/JD)

Maintains that children have been denied access to information through the omission of children's materials in the development of automated information systems, and through the failure of library networks to develop policies that include children as users. Eleven references are cited. (FM)

Explains the capabilities of Bibliographic Retrieval Services' CROSS database index, a "postings only" file which serves as a presearch aid to training and database selection, and as a tool for ready reference and interlibrary loan verification. Limitations of the aid are noted, and a specification table summarizes operating information.…

This article is a commentary on the first published paper on need for Standard Generalized Markup Language, "An Online System for Integrated Text Processing," presented at the 33rd annual meeting of the American Society for Information Science in Philadelphia, in October 15, 1970. Details the history of an online integrated text…

Defines communities of practice; reviews studies of situated learning and situated action; and suggests that these two activities may characterize the learning process in communities of practice where they are supported by a distinctive 'social' infrastructure. Analyzes fieldwork in three online communities to consider them as communities of…

Because animations can depict situational dynamics explicitly, they have the potential to help learners build coherent, high-quality mental models of complex change processes. Further, "interactive" animations provide opportunities for learners to deal with available information selectively and so avoid excessive processing demands. However, to be…