Describes the structure and functioning of a computerized database of student information within an admissions testing program (the University of Port Elizabeth's Admissions and Placement Assessment Programme). Discusses how it could serve as a model to foster development and accountability through information sharing. (EV)

Before communicating any information, institutional researchers should answer four diagnostic questions: Who's asking? What for? What's the proper medium? What happens next? (MSE)

Presents the theoretical aspects of a data analysis methodology that can help transform sequential raw data from a database into useful information, using the statistical analysis of patents as an example. Topics discussed include relational analysis and a technology watch approach. (Contains 17 references.) (LRW)

Considers ethical questions related to the copying and use of information from World Wide Web sites, especially graphics. Copyright violation, control of distribution, commercial online users, problems of perception, asking permission, and standards of ethical behavior are discussed. (LRW)

Evaluates the success of efforts to federally legislate knowledge utilization in Hawaii. Programs in the fields of agriculture, energy, and education are described; examples of federally supported knowledge utilization strategies in the United States are given; and areas where improvement is needed are suggested, including timeliness,…

Outlines research showing different ways that information is used in the decision-making process at high levels in organizations. Patterns of executive information use are described, including conceptual, instrumental, tactical, symbolic, and political use; and implications for the design of information systems that support decision making are…

Suggests that virtual reality might be a useful tool for managing large amounts of multimedia information. Calls this spatial phenomenon "cognitive space" and maintains that communication researchers are uniquely qualified to pursue this avenue. (SR)

Responses from 246 of 374 Pennsylvania farmers surveyed showed that (1) preferred sources of environmental issues information were consultation, demonstration, tours, and print; (2) water pollution and manure mismanagement were perceived as the most serious issues; and (3) they were uncertain about Pennsylvania Department of Environmental…

Discusses how advertisers use information (i.e., how they organize and present words) and suggests similarities with educators who try to attract attention, impart information, and foster retention of that information. Positioning in marketing is explained; and educational implications are discussed, including focusing on the audience and studying…

Discusses guidelines for the effective use of electronic media, including linear video, interactive video disk, multimedia programing, video-projected programing, and teleconferencing. (SR)

Reviews recent legal developments in information policy related to digital information, particularly on the Internet. Focuses on trends in which information ownership is encroaching on public uses of information or on public information space, that is, control and ownership of information versus public access to and use of information. (Contains…

Looks at the possible directions in which the information superhighway could take us, considering both the benefits of increased knowledge and subsequent increased participation and also the dangers, such as the excess of raw information. Suggests that this information needs to be structured, and considers implications from a global perspective.…

A discussion of the use of advisory committees in college and university administration outlines their many potential roles at both program and institutional levels, identifying reasons they are established and often underused. Issues of advisory committee effectiveness are then explored by examining several types of underinvolved and overinvolved…

Presents results from a study examining approaches developed by seven governments to foster competitive intelligence practice in SMEs (small and medium enterprises) and compares them with the approach taken by the government of Quebec. Suggests a need for a better understanding of information needs and uses in SMEs. (Contains 22 references.)…

Describes how experts create and use "bundles"--organized, highly selective collections of information--to help solve problems and maintain situation awareness. Based on fieldwork in an intensive care unit, five examples of bundles are described that illustrate the variety of bundles in use. A summary of bundle properties is given. (AEF)