Describes how keyboard macro processors can be used in the context of online searching to store alternative search statements before going online. An example using ProKey software is included, and its advantages and limitations are described and compared with the more sophisticated front end systems available. (EM)

Provides an overview for searching the ERIC (Educational Resources Information Center) database on Lockheed's DIALOG system, noting changes during its 11-year history. Background, focus, overlap with other files, vocabulary, full text searching, truncation, search saves, search tips, search examples, superselect, full text backup, and search aids…

This guide to the Educational Resources Information Center system provides descriptions of ERIC products--i.e., the two indexes, Resources in Education (RIE) and Current Index to Journals in Education (CIJE), and the Thesaurus of ERIC Descriptors--and illustrates their use with examples based on gender equity. Practice exercises using ERIC tools…

Intended to teach the principles of interactive bibliographic searching to those with little or no prior experience, this textbook explains the basic elements of online information retrieval and compares the major database search systems. Its chapters address (1) relevant definitions and vocabulary; (2) the conceptual facets of database searching,…

This abridged adaptation from the BRS System Reference Manual identifies and briefly explains the meanings and functions of the logical operators used to retrieve information from the BRS system. (FM)

Lists traits a competent online search analyst must possess, including: self-confidence, a logical mind, skills in communication and interpersonal relations, knowledge in subject areas and the art of searching, good public relations skills, a retentive memory, perseverance and patience, efficient work habits, and a willingness to share knowledge.…

Reviews ART MODERN, an on-line data base which provides comprehensive coverage of current worldwide literature on modern art and design since 1800. Areas described include scope, coverage, arrangement of printed and on-line indexes, characteristics of basic index and code searching; also search hints, search negotiation, searchguide, and data base…

Describes strategies that can be used to search the DIALOG database by date to add precision to searching. The "Current" command is explained, as well as other commands; ways to search a specific year are described; and DIALOG files that are already restricted by date are discussed. (LRW)

This brief review of the Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC) system is intended to make users more aware of (1) the system as a whole, (2) the process of indexing educational literature for the database, and (3) the role of the Thesaurus of ERIC Descriptors in the overall information dissemination process. An overview of the ERIC…

This descriptive guide provides introductory information geared to aid both the user and the information manager in the use of 3RIP, an online text database system consisting of three components: (1) a retrieval system used to locate and display records, (2) a file handler used to read records from files and to write records onto files, and (3) a…

Surveys major databases offering access to historical and biographical information in the sciences and highlights special features of each--Histline, America: History and Life, Historical Abstracts, Agricola, Biosis Previews, CA Condensates, Compendex, Excerpta Medica, Inspec, and Medline. Two references are listed. (EJS)

Provides money-saving tips to reduce online time when searching databases, reviews Alfred Glossbrenner's book on computer searching, and discusses the technical gaffes in the movie "War Games." (MBR)

Seventeen idea tactics to aid information specialists in furthering a reference search are defined as parts of total search strategies, and are grouped into idea generation and pattern breaking modes. Problems in testing such tactics are discussed. (FM)

This is a self-instructional learning package designed to teach skills needed to improve computer searches of the ERIC data base. This is done by the generation of appropriate terms, or descriptors, related to population concepts, action concepts, and curriculum concepts. It is asserted that if a learner can identify the three selected descriptor…

Guidelines for use of the Common Command Language (CCL) are briefly described in this report. The CCL was designed to combine functions of individual command languages available with databases on the interactive bibliographic retrieval system 3RIP. Conditions of user-system interaction are explained, with a list of user aids available. The 20…