Describes a microcomputer-based software package, Online Search Tutor (OST), which is designed to teach users online bibliographic searching. Modeled on software previously developed for the European Space Agency Information Retrieval Services (ESA-IRS), OST includes a database of 600 bibliographic records which will simulate actual search…

The first article describes SPORT, a database providing international coverage of athletics and physical education, and compares it to other online services in terms of coverage, thesauri, possible search strategies, and actual usage. The second article reviews available online information on sports medicine. (CLB)

Despite evidence that researchers seek information by intuitive, illogical means, librarians approach research in a static, product-oriented way. In performing searches for scholars, librarians need to understand the organic nature of research and facilitate online searching's capability to enhance that process. (CDD)

This publication features teaching ideas generated by classroom teachers. For grades K-4, fourth grade teacher, Janet Williamson, has developed "Off and Running with Primary Sources" which describes how she introduces students to primary sources using historical advertisements. Appropriate for grades 5-8, a strategy was developed by…

Discusses art teachers' information needs and outlines optimal library research strategies for retrieving various sorts of information. Included is an annotated bibliography of reference sources for art teachers. (AM)

The author suggests that student teachers make use of computerized literature retrieval to efficiently gather ideas, teaching strategies, and curriculum materials. Focusing on the ERIC database, he explains how to map out a multifaceted online search strategy and briefly discusses costs and document delivery. (SJL)

The number of hits on Internet keyword searches can be limited by following some tips and tricks to using search engines efficiently. Recommends being specific, checking relevancy, using multiple search engines, and using directories. Includes a bibliography of search engines, directories, and print and Internet articles. (PEN)

As libraries automate their collections and mount online public access catalogs (OPACs), they face special challenges in educating patrons to use these electronic systems effectively and efficiently. Because users are less familiar with the concept and arrangement of an OPAC than with a card catalog, less successful searches commonly occur.…

In order to determine whether the expertise of professionals in the field of psychiatry and law could be enhanced by the use of current awareness databases in addition to traditional online sources, the first of two papers in this document examines online searches on topics of interest to professionals in the psychiatry/law specialty. The use of…

Designed for use by professionals interested in the field of environmental communications, this resource guide contains sources of information pertaining to employment opportunities especially in the area of written environmental communications. References are compiled under the headings of: (1) subject headings (listing key descriptors for…

Extensionists need to make the "ASIAn Connection"--become Aware of the spectrum of research, Select program-related research, Integrate research from many disciplines, and Apply it in a way useful to clientele. Extensionists currently use a wide variety of traditional techniques to make the "ASIAn Connection." One relatively new technique has…

Briefly describes DIALOG OnDisc and gives an example of an actual search of the ERIC database using this system. The screen displays and search commands are used to illustrate the differences between the easy menu search method provided for novice users and the command search method provided for experienced users. (CLB)

This project designed to teach library and thinking skills to grade 7 students emphasized the importance of metacognition. Students were asked to choose a research topic and to prepare and evaluate daily research strategies. Allotment of time for planning and reflecting on strategies was considered crucial to the project. (MES)

Describes the Online Multiple User System (TOMUS), an integrated, turnkey library system with online catalog, cataloging, and authority control modules available; circulation, acquisitions, and serials control models are being designed. The experiences of four different libraries with the system are described. (EM)

Describes file management package offering relatively sophisticated features: conversion of previously downloaded records from commercial database into local file; keyword searching on inverted keyword file; full-text searching on author, title, bibliographic source, abstract; sorting by author, title, bibliographic source, publication year;…