Discusses data modeling techniques for the design of information systems and presents the idea of defining a kernel for object role modeling (ORM) techniques upon which different drawing styles can be based. Highlights include syntactical and semantic aspects of the ORM kernel; entity relationships; and the NIAM modeling technique. (50 references)…

Discusses the establishment of collective memory studies. Addresses six premises for collective remembering that are basic to contemporary scholarship: that collective memory is processual, unpredictable, partial, useable, both particular and universal, and material. Discusses the future of collective memory studies. (SR)

Proposes a mathematical model to explain the observed concentration or diversity of nominal classes in information retrieval systems. The Lorenz Curve is discussed, Information Production Process (IPP) is explained, and a heuristic explanation of circumstances in which the model might be used is offered. (30 references) (LRW)

Reviews the literature on gender issues in librarianship and reports results of a survey of male librarians that examined reasons for entering the profession, family support for this decision, awareness of and attitude toward male librarian stereotypes, career goals, effects of gender on advancement, and other gender-related issues. (67…

Introduces the journal's current invitational issue, the topic of which is the development of rationality and critical thinking. The issue hints at the future of research on the topic and does not stress corroborated theory. The introduction provides a brief overview of the six research articles in the issue. (BC)

Describes the history and methodology of a project to compile an annotated bibliography of published critical research on young adult literature. Preliminary findings include recommended book lists, articles by young adult authors, author studies, and topic analyses. Recommendations for future research are included. (EAM)

Lytton responds to two critical commentaries in this issue by restating the reasons why it is useful to try to disentangle child effects from parent effects. Argues that 10 convergent lines of research provide evidence that the child's tendencies are stronger contributors to conduct disorder than are parental influences. (RH)

Discusses two areas for improving consultation research: defining "boundary" conditions for consultation and analogue research and expanding measures used to evaluate consultation outcome research. Defines consultation as egalitarian relationship between consultant and consultee focusing on problem of third party client and resulting in…

Explores the idea of a crisis of representation in the context of organizational communication studies. Suggests that this notion should be the leitmotif for critical organizational theory and research across the next 10 years. (RS)

Describes a survey of 73 training professionals involved in course development that was conducted to determine whether and how they included instructional design activities in their projects. Factors influencing the selectivity of including instructional design activities are discussed; implications for practice are suggested; and future research…

Suggests that researchers studying electronic mail should consider the effects of variables of form (which include both specific technological designs and the diversity of documents which can be transmitted) and think of e-mail from a broad perspective: as an environment in which a diverse range of writing and research practices can be exercised…

Critically reviews data about the behavioral characteristics of mentally retarded sexual offenders. Discusses possible interactions between mental retardation and the provision of services and directions for future research. (Author)

Describes a study which investigated the use of an expert system that leads to incorrect advice to identify whether novice or expert users (petroleum engineers) are able to tell when the system is producing erroneous results. Dysfunctional relationships between expert systems and users are discussed, and additional research is suggested. (37…

A review of marketing education research 1936-91 illuminated areas of need for a research agenda in marketing education. A framework and proposal for future marketing education research were formulated. (JOW)

Describes a study that investigated participant interactions in a course delivered to five sites by interactive compressed video (ICV) technology. Highlights include the extent to which participants took advantage of opportunities for interaction; perceived barriers to interaction; and implications for practice and future research. (Contains 17…