Discusses types of sound-production equipment used for realization of interactive audio within computer assisted instruction (CAI) environments (speech synthesis systems, and speech/sound-recording, retrieval, and playback equipment); describes several authoring systems in which sound processing plays a predominant role; and presents an overview…

Summarizes the growth of databases, including major milestones, issues, and trends of the past 20 years, during which time the database/online industry had become a large and thriving segment of the information industry. A time line overview of database developments from 1951 to 1985 is appended. (42 references) (EJS)

This four-article section focuses on information storage capacity of the optical disk covering the information workstation (uses microcomputer, optical disk, compact disc to provide reference information, information content, work product support); use of laser videodisc technology for dissemination of agricultural information; encoding databases…

Discusses typical uses of databases and data management programs in the classroom; provides a learning plan to teach students how to use databases; lists typical student projects using databases; and presents criteria to help educators choose appropriate database management programs for their classrooms. (MBR)

Zipfian laws for frequency distributions of word pairs and longer phrases are derived from text sample analysis. From crossing of Zipfian curves, it is deduced that number of multi-word phrases that occur frequently in text is surprisingly small, of same order of magnitude as number of individual word-types. (8 references) (EJS)

This article reports on portion of Non-Print Project in which still image disks from Prints and Photographs division are being linked to microcomputer database with results that hold promise for preservation, access, collections management, and security. Bibliographies on videodiscs (6 items) and cataloging of graphic materials (10 items) are…

This overview of an experimental automated circulation system at Ibadan University (Nigeria) includes a discussion of system hardware, software, program structure, file structure, and system functions (charges, discharges, renews, overdues, fines, reservations, recalls, and assisted query). Statistics on manual and automated systems related to…

Outlines procedures and policies carried out by Simon Fraser University (SFU) in the microform conversion program initiated due to imminent space problems. Discussion covers background, space situation at SFU (seating, shelving), financial support for program, involvement of University Microfilms International and a book dealer, and conclusions.…

This review of international information exchange formats focuses on the international standard ISO 2709 and MARC formats, "UNISIST Reference Manual," UNIMARC (Universal MARC format), the Common Communications Format, centralized network formats (International Serials Data System, MINISIS, regional), International MARC network study…

Describes the general data management and file processing system created by the Open University to assist the tutor-counsellors in their support of students. The differences between the tutorial and the counselling functions are discussed, details are given of the type of information stored on disc. (EAO)

Describes a two-quarter hour college chemistry course focusing on laboratory safety. Includes lists of topics/assignments, problem sets (toxicology, storage, and energy) and videotapes, films, and slide sets used in the course. (JN)

Presents tips and suggestions for installing computer hardware and related equipment in school libraries. Highlights include cabling and wiring set-up; temperature control and lighting; hardware placement that allows for safety and supervision; spatial and furniture considerations for hardware stations; equipment storage; and security. (AEF)

Discusses the results of a study of access problems and issues related to scholarly and peer-reviewed electronic journals (e- journals) found on the Internet. Reports data on the accuracy of directory information; accessibility of articles; status of e-journal archives; methods used to retrieve current and back issues; and data formats used by…

Discusses electronic journals available on the World Wide Web, particularly in the field of education. Highlights include hypermedia journals; journals, the Internet, and education and learning theory; journal formats; the role of the librarian; and concerns, including archiving, copyright, updating, and subscriptions. (LRW)

Discusses the use of electronic portfolios in higher education. Highlights include availability of the Web and databases; the growth of vendors in this area; benefits to students, faculty, and administrators, including statistics for accreditation; data storage; data security; certification issues; and a list of ePortfolio tools and resources.…