Suggests ways of using personal computers in special libraries, including online searching; CD-ROM networks; reference work; current awareness services; press cuttings services; selective dissemination of information; local databases; object linking and embedding; cataloging; acquisitions; circulation; serials control; interlibrary loan; space…

Reports on a study about the influence of different writing tools and classroom environments on students' writing processes and achievement. Finds that using computers rather than pen-and-paper writing was less teacher dominated and more student independent. Discusses implications of the study. (CFR)

Compares Wilson's database tape and the IAC "Expanded Academic Index" as explored by librarians in the State University System of Florida. Features addressed include journal coverage; abstracts and full text; subject headings, including consistency versus precision and controlled vocabularies; search software; disk storage requirements;…

Suggests that intuition and visualization are effective methods of introducing engineering principles to pre-engineering students. Describes the development of computer simulation software as part of a "Pre-Engineering College On Disk" course. The computer game helps students visualize the relationship between shell trajectory and its…

Describes two experiments in Dutch secondary schools that were carried out to study the effect of the sequencing of the information in computer-assisted instructional programs. Instructional design for concept learning is discussed; successive and coordinate relationships between concepts are explained; and tests designed for procedural and…

In a contrastive rhetoric study of nonnative English speakers, 768 essays written in English by native speakers of Arabic, Chinese, Spanish, and English were examined using the Writer's Workbench program to determine whether distinctive, quantifiable differences in the use of 4 cohesion devices existed among the 4 language backgrounds. (Author/LB)

Considers the future of academic libraries in five main areas: (1) funding; (2) buildings and space, including storage options for print and nonprint materials; (3) library materials, including electronic journals and monographs, video, computer software, government information, resource sharing, and workstations; (4) staff, including the roles of…

Describes an evaluation of the effects of the Mathematics and Science Computer Assisted Remedial Teaching (MASCART) software on students at the University of Botswana. Treatment of experimental and control groups is explained, effects on ability groups are discussed, and increased time on task and student motivation are considered. (14 references)…

Makes recommendations for student research projects on local history and family history. Suggests teachers and librarians working together can overcome problems concerning accessibility to, and careful use of, genealogical materials. Suggests research projects and gives examples of cooperation between teachers and librarians who solved research…

These three articles address issues in library cataloging that are affected by automation: (1) the impact of automation and bibliographic utilities on professional catalogers; (2) the effect of the LASS microcomputer software on the cost of authority work in cataloging at the University of Arizona; and (3) online subject heading and classification…

Explorer is an interactive environment based on a constructivist epistemology of learning that integrates animated computer models with analytic capabilities for learning science. The system includes graphs, a spreadsheet, scripting, and interactive tools. Two examples involving the dynamics of colliding objects and electric circuits illustrate…

Reviews problems with using blocking software to regulate children's access to areas of the Internet deemed inappropriate. Discusses how blocking software functions, and provides examples of types of consequences that can result. Points out an upcoming court case on the use of blocking software by public libraries and schools. (DSK)

Supports the use of filtering software by parents, schools, and libraries as a least restrictive alternative to criminal prosecution to restrict the availability of pornographic materials on the Internet. Argues that filtering programs work well and do not make most of the mistakes attributed to them by detractors. (DSK)

The Houston Consortium of Urban Professional Development and Technology Schools project, developed to prepare teachers for urban, multicultural classrooms is continuing its development of a telecommunications infrastructure for its members--faculty, teachers, staff and students from colleges, public schools, and regional educational service…

A discussion of new technologies and strategies for monitoring college student progress identifies four stages of developing information systems: (1) problem definition and systems specification; (2) data extraction and synthesis; (3) data analysis; and (4) dissemination. Some trends in use of data sources, analysis types, tracking capabilities,…