Discusses the impact of information technologies on the academic environment and the need to manage changes in information services, and presents managerial strategies for information services in support and strategic positions. Problems unique to the academic environment are identified and possible solutions are suggested. (CLB)

Describes reading-textbook evaluation and selection processes and argues that improved basal readers are likely to be developed if textbook adoption procedures improve. States that basal reader evaluation criteria and procedures should be developed and applied by those professionals most directly responsible for the teaching of reading. (Author/NH)

The Library of Congress has embarked on a three-year pilot program in image preservation and retrieval using optical disk technology. Print materials (text, maps, music) will be captured on digital optical disks, and nonprint materials (motion pictures, slides, drawings) on analog optical disks, or videodisks. (EJS)

Describes interactive video, compares disc- and tape-based systems, and summarizes the considerations that led to the development of the "Autotutor," an interactive video system for language learners. The process of creating interactive video learning materials is explained and its advantages to the learner are discussed. (SED)

Describes a pilot videodisc project for French language instruction. Unique features include (1) learner control of instruction by a mouse or touch-sensitive screen, (2) extensive cultural interaction, and (3) an elaborate lexicon of word meanings portrayed visually for selected key words. (Author/SED)

Institutions prarticipating in the Higher Education for Adult Mental Health Project created model programs to enhance the quality of their responses to growing numbers of adult students. This article describes the project and summarizes the efforts of 18 participating institutions located in the southern United States. (PGD)

Describes development of a new British individualized learning scheme which utilizes radio to teach human biology to secondary school students. Program requirements, field testing, and the development of a study guide to accompany the radio instruction are discussed. (MBR)

Description of classification schemes for fiction book retrieval covers traditional methods, universal systems, special systems, genre systems, and development of the AMP-classification system based on multidimensional analysis of users' requests (subject matter, setting, author's intention, accessibility). Trial applications and retrieval tests,…

Defines long-term benefits of the Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) program by surveying enrollees and parents to determine if: (1) enrollees believed that YCC participation improved their attitudes, skills, and behaviors; (2) perceived benefits varied according to different enrollees or camps; and (3) social benefits exist beyond those identified by…

Surveys ongoing research, development, and application of optical data disk technology; introduces principal suppliers and users and their projects; examines public and private sector ventures and peripheral industries surrounding optical disk technology; presents a case study highlighting OCLC's optical disk use; and lists current sources of…

This paper responds to calls for further research on learning effectiveness of instructional technologies by comparing 'learning' and 'attitudes' across three instructional environments (multimedia, textbook and in-class instruction), and proposing a quasi-experimental research design approach. The paper reports the results of pilot studies…

Recognizing that substance abuse is one of the nation's most serious health problems and is associated with numerous social ills, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation launched Free to Grow in 1994, a pilot program targeting families and communities of Head Start children to create changes that would protect them from substance abuse and related…

The Seashore Teacher Professional Certification Program developed by Seattle University, Washington, in collaboration with three school districts, is being implemented in several phases. Phase 1 consisted of mentor support for new teachers, and Phase 2 established a site-based support program. Phase 3 consisted of graduate program coursework for…

This exploratory study examined the perceptions of learning held by 259 children in a primary school in Singapore. Their perceptions were compared with those of a sample of 26 teachers and parents. Based on data collected using a rating scale and a metaphor task, various perceptions of learning were identified. Findings indicated that over 70…

Few research studies have examined the use of student ratings of instructors from the standpoint of their ability to be interpreted and their subsequent usefulness. This study examined the effects of a training session conducted by experts in the field of student ratings of instruction. The first question was to determine the knowledge, skills,…