Discusses the problems of access to information in a machine-sensible environment, and the potential of modern library techniques to help in solving them. Explains how authors and publishers can make information more accessible by providing indexing information that uses controlled vocabulary, terms from a thesaurus, or other linguistic assistance…

This report describes a three-stage catalog use study conducted at the University of Wisconsin-Stout from 1982 through 1986 to determine the types of searches conducted and search success rates for both the card and online catalogs during the library's transition to the DataPhase Automated Library Information System (ALIS). Phase I, conducted…

In the future, computers will be needed to sift through the vast proliferation of available information. Among new developments in computer technology are the videodisc microcomputers and holography. Predictions for future developments include laser libraries for the visually handicapped and Computer Assisted Dialogue. (JN)

Research in human-computer interaction is evolving a user-centered methodology for system design and instruction that focuses on integrating affective and cognitive user variables to increase productivity, creativity, and human growth. Discussion includes the survey approach, the experimental-ethnographic approach; theory-building; and the future…

Issues connected with knowledge acquisition through the development of complex computer programs--Intelligent Tutoring Systems (ITSs)--are discussed. The components of such a system and its applications are considered, including: elicitation of knowledge, tutoring with incomplete/uncertain knowledge, self-improving tutoring systems, and…

Virtual worlds technology (VWT) uses special computer hardware and software to link humans with computers in natural ways. A data model, or virtual world, is created and presented as a three-dimensional world of sights and sounds. The participant manipulates apparent objects in the world, and in so doing, alters the data model. VWT will become…

A study in eastern Ontario, Canada, evaluated a computer program, the Autoskill Component Reading Subskills Program, which was used to improve the reading comprehension of elementary school students identified as reading disabled. Subjects, 91 students from five school districts, were behind at least one grade in reading word recognition skills…

Six papers dealing with decision support and knowledge based systems are presented. Five of the papers are concerned in some way with the use of artificial intelligence techniques in individual or group decision support. The sixth paper presents empirical results from the use of a group decision support system. (CLB)

This report presents an information needs assessment for an office automation plan to be undertaken for the School Building Services Branch of the Alberta Department of Education. This exercise complements the work of two senior committees within the Department: (1) the Electronic Information Processing Needs Study Steering Committee, and (2) the…

Compares Wilson's database tape and the IAC "Expanded Academic Index" as explored by librarians in the State University System of Florida. Features addressed include journal coverage; abstracts and full text; subject headings, including consistency versus precision and controlled vocabularies; search software; disk storage requirements;…

Four field tests of Canadian software show that computerized interactive fiction teaches both history and independent reading/study skills. (ARH)

Educational computing based on the primacy of human agency is explored, considering ways in which power can be apportioned and exercised in order to enhance educational computing. Ideas about power and control are situated epistemologically. A first consideration is educating for human control of computer technology. Research suggests that…

A difficult task in creating rich, exploratory interactive learning environments is building an environment that is truly engaging. Engagement can be defined as the nexus of intrinsic knowledge and/or interest and external stimuli that promote the initial interest in, and continued use of a computer-based learning environment. Complete and total…

The emphasis of this text is that the problems of information retrieval are the intellectual ones of subject analysis and description. These problems are not easily solved by technology alone, although certain inroads are being made by knowledge-based expert systems and other computer aids to indexing. Linguistic approaches are also showing…