The theme of this article concerns the sketching in of a number of the factors in man's evolutionary interaction with tools, leading toward the predicted eventuality in his development, the replacement of man by machines. (Author)

This discussion of the role and effects of microcomputers in the information industry considers technological advances of recent times and how they may affect the future. Complexity of systems and systems control, problems of communication (machine-to-machine, machine-to-human), spread of microcomputers, and information networks and systems are…

Questions how anthropomorphic human computer interface design should be. Observes: the impulse to anthropomorphize technology has been longstanding, employed with artifacts besides computers; evolution of technologies proceeds through an introductory phase wherein a culture becomes acclimatized to the new technology; and the perception of…

Describes possible futures for the use of artificial intelligence in the workplace. Discusses expert and hypertext systems, as well as possible uses for these technologies. Proposes formation of a "master system" combining these technologies that would encourage a significant increase in human skills and self-worth. (CH)

Outlines the need for the development of computer-based curriculum in a trial set of courses that incorporates interactive technology. If the trial courses are successful it could lead to a major national curriculum development effort. (MD)

Presents Dr. Ben Shneiderman and Dr. James Hendler debate on what the future Web should look like; how do we get there; to what extent should the Web mimic human behavior; during the closing session of the American Society for Information Science and Technology (ASIST) Annual Meeting, (Washington, DC, November 3-8, 2001). (JMK)

This paper explores interactivity, and considers what should be done to create a mass market for interactive media. It is suggested that one way to do so is to examine the video game phenomenon, and a model of interactivity is proposed. The model, a "home interactive theater," would involve interaction in the telling of a story, with the…

This article describes the current capabilities and future potential of robots designed as supplements or replacements for human assistants or as tools for education and rehabilitation of people with disabilities. Review of robots providing educational, vocational, or independent living assistance concludes that eventually effective, reliable…

The performance capabilities of the best computer chess programs are compared with their human counterparts with emphasis being placed on machine behavior limits. (Author)

A Computer Integrated Manufacturing System may make it possible for severely disabled people to custom design, machine, and manufacture either wood or metal parts. Programmable automation merges computer aided design, computer aided manufacturing, computer aided engineering, and computer integrated manufacturing systems with automated production…

Examines general technical issues involved in placing latest computer systems, operable by end users in programer-free environment, at disposal of non-English-speaking users. User environment, classification of software products (token dependent, communications intensive, language dependent), approaches to bilingual software modification,…

The United States, running second to Japan in the robot race, is employing 19 percent of the world's robots. This article presents six classes of robots that were defined by the Japanese trade association. All are multifunctional, equipped with a memory device, capable of rotation, and able to replace human workers. (SSH)

Presents three current areas of research in human relations at Harvard University which may help solve the problems professionals face due to widespread introduction of new information technologies into the work environment. These include organizational learning, information mapping, and principled negotiation. (CT)

Traces the early history of the electronic digital computer and the viewpoints held concerning the computer from its inception to its present status. Highlights three key words ("mimesis,""topic," and "decorum") to develop the rhetoricality of the personal computer as a communications device. (KEH)