This article presents a brief history of computer assisted library research and describes ten DIALOG databases that are most relevant to the humanities. Illustrates a simplified search strategy and describes the results of a project designed to involve humanities faculty at a university in using computerized searching. (JDH)

This keynote address argues that in order for baccalaureate and masters degree students to apply research to make better judgments and decisions in their life-affecting practice and in response to the information revolution, the helping professions need to redesign (from the bottom up) not overhaul (make a few changes in) the way research methods…

Describes the need for bibliographic instruction and the benefits of providing in-class bibliographic instruction by librarians in lower and upper division psychology courses. (JDH)

In response to a request from the Research Division of the American Historical Association (AHA), the Association for the Bibliography of History (ABH) compiled a report on the options for a new history literature guide and on additional issues in history bibliography. The AHA previously conducted surveys to solicit opinions about the need for a…

Surveys research guides and reference materials useful to English scholars. Offers a list of 13 resource materials. (RL)

Presents observations of a researcher on state of educational research. States that some issues and questions have not changed in 50 years. Cites the arguments over the difference between basic and applied research, and the hereditary basis of intelligence. Concludes with remarks about inappropriate data analysis, the use of technology, and the…

Discusses some of the significant sources that have influenced the research by participants in a Research Think Tank (on business communication). Discusses sources that inspired research, how the source list was generated, why it is relevant, and what it tells researchers. Appends the 75-item list. (SR)

Notes that the research consequences of current problems in composition bibliography have not been widely understood. Explores four special features of the composition field that have made bibliographic control difficult: (1) field demarcation; (2) taxonomy and terminology; (3) publication format, purpose, and intended audience; and (4)…

Contends that the changing constellation of semiotic and spatial practices associated with new media and online literacies constitutes a very different object of research than has been addressed by literacy researchers. Concludes that literacy researchers need to develop new repertoires of literacy practices in relation to everyday use of…

Discussion of the right to privacy of communications focuses on privacy expectations within a National Research and Education Network (NREN). Highlights include privacy needs in scientific and education communications; academic and research networks; network security and privacy concerns; protection strategies; and consequences of privacy…

Argues that a deleterious effect of increased use of online databases in academic debate is the change in the nature of information available to debaters and corresponding changes in ideological assumptions in argumentation. Examines the link between debate training and argumentative proficiency in a democracy. Foresees the likely consequences of…

Replies to another article in this issue by Robert Tucker. Argues that Tucker's view of how debaters research is limited. Suggests that his argument relies on a skewed view of the nature of electronic resources. States that Tucker's argument is grounded in a misperception of the nature of the free marketplace of ideas and its role within a…

Responds to a reply to this author's article in this issue. Identifies the four significant points of difference in the two arguments and examines each point. Reiterates the author's initial arguments. (PA)

There is no question that the many journals published here and around the world provide a common ground for scholars to evaluate theories or findings proposed by their peers. In the field of mass communication, the visual component should be included as a useful tool in discussing relevant issues of the day; further, the editing and preparation of…

Presents a colloquium in which five scholars examine issues facing researchers in the history of business communication: how to identify topics and research questions; where to find archival and published sources; how to interpret texts and set them in context; special problems to overcome in historical research; and what work needs to be done.…