Discussion of information system design proposes the artifact as theory perspective and suggests that information system design is best tackled by user-centered theories and methods. Topics include the software development process, human-computer interaction, and implications for information science. (LRW)

Explains multimedia information systems (MMIS) and describes a pilot system with automatic content retrieval developed at the Victoria University of Manchester (England). Topics discussed include types of databases; requirements of the Manchester MMIS; system architecture and operation; semantic data and their representation of images; queries;…

Describes the design of an experimental computer-aided cataloging advisor, Mapper, that was developed to help novice users with the descriptive cataloging of single-sheet maps from U.S. publishers. The human-computer interface is considered, the use of HyperCard is discussed, the knowledge base is explained, and assistance screens are described.…

Describes the development of a model for future national and international digital libraries. Four aspects of the model are presented: (1) nine principles underlying constructing electronic archives; (2) a study of potential user needs; (3) the design and evaluation of the user interface; and (4) objects and document type definition development.…

Considers the impact of information technology on academic integrity. Highlights include machines versus man; honor codes and student cheating; copyrights for digital data; authoring versus writing; intuitive software; and an example and analysis of the use of AutoSummary in Microsoft Word 97 to create a summary of a published article. (Contains…

Presents a brief historical overview of research in individual differences in the context of virtual environments. Highlights the notion of structure in the perception of individual users of an information system and the role of individuals' abilities to recognize and use such structures to perform various information-intensive tasks. (Author/LRW)

Many catalogs are built in an ad hoc fashion, which results in uncertain quality in publicly accessible network catalogs. This article discusses problems facing designers building catalogs for large networks, relating them to resource discovery; provides a usability framework based on library science and human computer interaction literature; and…

Identifies user interface problems as they relate to computer-assisted instruction (CAI); reviews the learning theories and instructional theories related to CAI user interface; and presents potential CAI user interface improvements for research and development based on learning and instructional theory. Focuses on screen design improvements.…

Discusses the creation of guides to resources on the Internet, focusing on the Internet environment, including its culture and etiquette, authority, publication, standards, and searching tools and processes; and the process of guide construction, including the human element, the nature of resources, intellectual property, and time. (Author/LRW)

To explicate Marshall McLuhan's thinking, three concepts germane to his views on technology are introduced: technology as an extension of man; visual and acoustical space; and the laws of media. The goal is to engender a deeper appreciation of McLuhan to help educators and communication specialists understand how media (technology) can be used to…

Discusses the interaction between students and technology in online open learning distance education courses. Topics include human-computer interfaces; relationships between course design and learning theories; how students use computer technology and how it can help them learn; and a new framework for evaluating an online open learning course.…

This paper describes the use of video to provide a screenplay depiction of a proposed artificial intelligence software system. Advantages of such use are identified: (1) the video can be used to provide a clear conceptualization of the proposed system; (2) it can illustrate abstract technical concepts; (3) it can simulate the functions of the…

InterBrowse, a uniform interface information retrieval application for several different databases, is designed to be used in Intermedia, a hypermedia environment currently under development at Brown University's Institute for Research Information and Scholarship. This application arose out of the recognized need for an interface that can be used…

This 21-paper collection examines various issues in electronic networking and conferencing with computers, including design issues, conferencing in education, electronic messaging, computer conferencing applications, social issues of computer conferencing, and distributed computer conferencing. In addition to a keynote address, "Computer…

Man-machine interface, the concept of a computer "query," a review of database technology, and a description of the use of query languages at Brigham Young University are discussed. The pros and cons of end-user use of database query languages are explored. (Author/MLW)