Asserts that teachers have the technological tools to help students become involved in their own learning. Maintains that geographic instruction can be improved by using one computer or an entire bank of computers in the classroom. Describes and recommends computer software programs and online information services. (CFR)

Reviews recent trends in databases and online systems. Topics discussed include new access points for established databases; acquisitions, consolidations, and competition between vendors; European coverage; international services; online reference materials, including telephone directories; political and legal materials and public records;…

Examines decisions schools are faced with in terms of electronic reference materials selection. Discusses CD-ROM versus online technology; choosing the "suite" of software; blending equipment creatively; and costs. A chart highlighting prices, scope/coverage, and strengths for various vendors' databases is included. (AEF)

Provides an overview of library automation in Minnesota. Topics include regional public library systems; library automation vendors; multitype library systems; postsecondary and academic libraries; state government libraries; the Internet; telecommunications and statewide online system legislation and funding; and state library agency involvement…

Discusses the management predicaments encountered in decision making for a very small school library and the reasons that procedures recommended in the literature may not be applicable. The process used in planning and implementing an online circulation system in a high school library is described. (Author/CLB)

Describes four online information service packages developed for schools: (1) Dialog's Classroom Instruction Program; (2) Addison-Wesley's Einstein; (3) WNET's Learning Link; and (4) McGraw-Hill's Information Exchange (MIX). Databases offered in each service are described, as well as accompanying curriculum materials, and costs for the services…

The advantages and disadvantages of the compact disk version of the DISCLOSURE database are compared to the print version and other online formats. Currentness of information, searching methods, users' perceptions taken from a student survey, price, availability, response time, and browsabiity are considered. Sample menus and screen displays are…

Describes a survey of database searchers which sought information on the methods they had used to learn search techniques, and methods they felt would be most appropriate for novices. The study methodology is described and a respondent profile and research-based predictions are provided. The questionnaire used is appended. (EM)

Discusses developments at the U.S. Bureau of the Census. Includes strategies and changes for Census 2000, new information storage and retrieval systems, a new Internet subscription service offering enhanced access to selected Census Bureau databases, and the transfer of responsibility for the Census of Agriculture to the National Agricultural…

Profiles 25 database distribution and production companies, all of which responded to a 1997 survey with information on 54 separate online, Web-based, or CD-ROM systems. Highlights increased competition, distribution formats, Web versions versus local area networks, full-text delivery, and pricing policies. Tables present a sampling of customers…

Maintains that the Internet offers services and opportunities for music teachers and students. Provides an overview of topics such as electronic mail, File Transfer Protocol (FTP), Gopher, and the World Wide Web (WWW). Includes two lists of music resources available on the Internet. (CFR)

Reviews the events and the literature of 1986-90 concerned with the pricing of research and professional materials for libraries. Serials are discussed, including pricing studies and price indexes, publisher's views, and the need for a new paradigm of scholarly publishing; monographs are considered; and electronic publishing is addressed,…

Addresses the inadequacies of traditional methods of library financing and proposes a strategy to be implemented in an environment supported by automation and networks. Publisher pricing of data rather than publications, options for charging library users with debit cards, and the role of regional library networks are discussed. (EAM)

Offers a model for choosing among CD-ROM, end user access, mediated online searching, or locally mounted files as alternatives for extending online catalogs and replacing printed indexes. Estimates of demand and comparisons of costs made at Trinity and Clemson Universities provide a quantitative framework for selection. (Contains four references.)…

Describes the experiences of Rhode Island's Higher Education Library Information Network (HELIN) Consortium in purchasing electronic journals and databases. Discusses criteria and guidelines developed to help in the decision making process, including coverage, indexing, search features, help features, screen design, full text availability,…