Communications specialists should interpret the slogan "integrated communications planning" as a concern for communicating efforts to promote education, health, racial equality, and world peace rather than as a call to expand bureaucratic power and control. The advantages of multiple initiatives and of allowing specialists to perform…

States that the rapidly growing applications of computer and telecommunications technology to library services and information systems does not guarantee ready access to these services. Discusses the Council on Library Resources' concerns and its commitment to providing accessible and expansive information to the public. (GEA)

Discussion of the need for distributed information retrieval systems focuses on a model system, Fulcrum FUL/Text. Differences from distributed database management systems are described; system design is discussed; implementation requirements are explained including remote operation calls (ROC's); and a prototype simulation model based on FUL/Text…

Observations on impact of WILSONLINE (online access to H. W. Wilson's indexes) on the industry, library services, and end users are drawn from interviews with reference librarians, H. W. Wilson administrative staff, and monitors of database industry. Issues addressed include quality, thoroughness, ease of use, and marketing (demand, pricing,…

Reports on the use of microcomputers in comprehensive library circulation systems. Topics covered include system requirements (reliability, completeness); determining circulation system needs (saving money, improving service, modernization); limitations of microcomputers (capacity, kinds of data stored, number of stations or terminals); system…

In order to further develop West German information services for education, it is suggested that the ERIC structural model--a coordinating central office and a network of clearinghouses--be developed as a continuation of the existing "Dokumentationsring Padagogik" (DOPAED) documentation service. (16 references) (EJS)

Examines principal policy decisions affecting U.S. government's information activities and explores applicability and impact of government's policy on generation and dissemination of information. Types of information resources that individuals need to function effectively as consumers and citizens and extent to which private sector is serving…

A three-step implementation plan is outlined for restructuring school psychology for participation in career education: (1) career guidance; (2) initiating career education; and (3) acceptance of leadership role by guidance personnel. The plan makes systematic use of the resources of the ERIC information system. Twelve references are included.…

Computers, though they can help educational institutions manage their facilities efficiently, are no substitute for good judgment. Before computerizing, institutions should systematize their records and evaluate their information needs; they should take care not to acquire unnecessary systems or become over-reliant on computers. (MCG)

The immediate future of human services and information technology is examined. Changes in professional training will incorporate high skill levels in the use and application of information technology, while changes in the problems people experience are addressed in four areas: intellect intensive society; human services; sex bias technology; and…

This overview of local library online systems that integrate several functions covers functional integration, benefits of integrated systems, turnkey systems, minicomputer and microcomputer-based systems, interfacing automated systems, types of interfaces, linking homogenous and heterogeneous systems, role of vendors, library applications, linking…

Defines and discusses the equipment and software needed to start telecommunicating: modems (speed, autodial or manual dial, stand-alone or built-in), telephones, telecommunications software, and commercial information services, including electronic mail and bulletin boards. Definitions, communications protocols, equipment features, and costs are…

Trends in online searching are discussed in terms of how end users continue to change role of the librarian and information specialist. Identification and description of end users, user-friendly information retrieval systems, front-end software packages, and current and potential developments in end user searching are covered. Ten readings are…

The author argues that it is time to move beyond definitional activities in research related to effective schooling. Four new challenges to researchers are suggested: indicators of effectiveness; extending effectiveness to new contexts; staff development; and information processing. (MT)

This report on the microcomputer-to-mainframe link highlights advantages and weaknesses of each system when used independently; technical considerations for link (personal computer emulates a dumb terminal, data transfer, selective data access category, nongeneric links); how librarians can use the link; availability of software; and planning for…