This paper discusses examples of searching vocabularies, i.e., lists of terms which have been prepared with the online searcher, rather than the indexer, in mind. These lists are categorized as: enhanced thesauri or subject heading lists, synonym listings, index term listings, and merged vocabularies. Eight references are provided. (EJS)

Describes two factors affecting the results of manual and online information retrieval: the manner by which classification codes and key words are chosen, and the degree to which papers with comparable contents are accorded similar keywords. Of 14 alternative search strategies selected, the best consisted of using classification codes coupled with…

A standard online search strategy involving use of acronyms is evolved and searches are performed over wide range of databases. Advantage gained by use of acronyms is measured with respect to free and controlled terms, and percentages of extra documents retrieved are given. Four references and sample searches are included. (EJS)

Identifies characteristics of the experienced online searcher and discusses the results of three searches carried out by a variety of searchers in widely differing subject fields--presence of arsenic in coal, problems of working alone in laboratory or work area, and spectral sensitivity of the insect eye. (8 references) (EJS)

Examines the changing role of controlled vocabulary in the postcoordinate online search, particularly its current role in the formulation of online search strategies. Effects of controlled vocabulary searching on precision and recall and examples of concept "hedges" from the "Thesaurus of ERIC Descriptors" are discussed. Nine…

Describes a series of studies conducted to determine how ERIC online searchers were using free and controlled vocabulary in their search statements and to understand relevance implications of the resultant differences. (SW)

Presents the advantages and disadvantages of free text and controlled vocabulary retrieval techniques and a methodology to assist in deciding on the optimal technique for a particular purpose. The relevance of the techniques for expert systems and full text contexts is also discussed and recommendations for further research are made. (Author/EM)

Analytical methods for facilitating comparison of multiple sets during online searching are illustrated by description of specific searching methods that eliminate duplicate citations and a factoring procedure based on syntactic relationships that establishes ranked sets. Searches executed in National Center for Mental Health database on…

Describes various modifications of query formulations, or moves, made by experienced online searchers to improve search results. Operational moves that modify query formulation while keeping meaning of query components unchanged and conceptual moves that change meaning of query components are described; all moves are then related to search tactics…

Describes a two-phase stemming algorithm which consists of word root identification and automatic selection of word variants starting with same word root from inverted file. Use of algorithm in book catalog file is discussed. Ten references and example of subject search are appended. (EJS)

Reviews 12 different methods of information retrieval for the reduction of a large set by removal of irrelevant or unwanted elements, including logic revision (use of "and" and "not" logic, classification codes, limit commands, field restriction), concept revision, and terminology revision. Examples for each option are given.…

Describes use of the software ADABAS (general purpose database management system) and NATURAL (interactive programing language) in development and implementation of an information retrieval system for the National Television and Radio Network of Israel. General design considerations, files contained in each archive, search strategies, and keywords…

Presents typology of online search heuristics consisting of six main classes: philosophical attitudes and overall approach; language of problem description; record and file structure; concept formulation and reformulation; recall and precision; and cost efficiency. Heuristics in each of the six classes are listed and selected examples are briefly…

Discusses forces at work within today's on-line data base environment which could lead to the emergence of a distributed information network; identifies several important modules in such a network, including an automated subject switching module; and reports research investigations, critical issues, and preliminary findings with regard to…

Discusses impact of three selected command language facilities (positional or free text operations, crossfile searching, term frequency analysis--ZOOM) on the man-system interface in relation to operational online information retrieval (IR). A cognitive IR model, searchers' knowledge structures, and searching with different types of command…