A consultation quality control model (CQCM) developed for an expert system (ES) integrated both ES performance measures and end-user judgment values. Simple decision theory concepts were used to design the CQCM. Results show end users belong to different categories characterized by utility functions and the weights they assign to ES consultation…

Discusses similarities and differences between knowledge acquisition in expert systems and requirement acquisition in others kinds of information systems (particularly decision support systems). Examines role-limiting methods for automated knowledge acquisition and their integration from the problem-solving perspective. Suggests a feasibility…

Describes Libraries Online, a pilot project created by Microsoft and the American Library Association to develop ways to provide access to information technologies to underserved populations. Presents the nine public libraries that will receive cash grants, staff training, computer hardware and software, and technical support to help support local…

Describes a study of 81 community college libraries or learning centers to determine the extent that organizational structures had changed as a result of implementing automated library systems and to explore the changing relationship between libraries and computer centers. Finds minimal changes in structures among participants. (11 citations) (MAB)

Provides the text of the 1993 Ian P. Sharp Lecture on Information Science that discussed issues concerning the global information network, particularly as they affect Canada. Highlights include the economic value of knowledge; information technology; effects on business; the global marketplace; effects on work practices; collaboration; social…

Discussion of whether information technology can play a significant role in improving the quality of life for people with severe learning difficulties focuses on a study in the United Kingdom that investigated the use of customized hypermedia and a speech synthesis system with an individual who has severe communication problems. (Contains 10…

Describes a study of 11 large firms that identified difficulties that organizations encounter in matching current information technologies with business needs. The main problems are discussed, including high costs of new technology, lack of computer literacy among senior management, and lack of time in the information systems department. (Contains…

A survey was conducted of 100 Ohio school library media specialists (79% return) to determine where they received their technology training. Years of experience ranged from 1 to 32 with and average of 16 years. Results indicate that 85% of training has occurred after employment; and 8 figures display the survey results. (AEF)

A discussion of digital bibliography in the medical sciences looks at whether existing bibliographic techniques are appropriate for the new media, and the location of responsibility for emerging digital bibliography. Developments in medical informatics and medical librarianship are examined, and it is concluded that collaboration between these…

A discussion of technology in higher education looks at common, often erroneous, assumptions made in evaluating computer applications for teaching. The Flashlight Project, a three-year effort to develop and share procedures used by colleges and universities to evaluate education strategies for using technology, is described briefly. (MSE)

A panel of four conference presenters address issues related to paying for services provided through online systems. Discussion includes the following topics: metering devices; electronic/digital cash; working within existing banking/credit card structures; provision of payment mechanisms in countries without extensive credit card usage; and…

Discusses the inservice training of teachers in Ontario (Canada) focusing on Additional Qualification (AQ) courses. The "Computers in the Classroom" AQ course is outlined; and the future of the program is examined with respect to government and university support and professional development opportunities. (JKP)

Narrative text and 6 tables provide information about a survey of 105 libraries on materials spending: number of questionnaires sent and returned; number and percentage of libraries with a materials spending policy; how percentages were determined; average (mean) percentage spent for materials; change in percent spent for materials in recent…

Compares compact discs (CD-ROMs) and online services in terms of cost of information delivery; system advantages and disadvantages; future possibilities; and role in the National Information Infrastructure. Analysis reveals that CD-ROMs have the lowest information delivery cost and are endorsed by the marketplace as a cost-effective way to deliver…

Changes in information technology threaten the traditional role of the college library on campus. Library administrators must position the library politically as well as technologically to play a central role in services, technology, and organization, and to enable the library to retain an integral place in the university's intellectual life. (MSE)