Evaluates and compares two recently proposed automatic methods for relevance feedback of Boolean queries (Dillon method, which uses probabilistic approach as basis, and disjunctive normal form method). Conclusions are drawn concerning the use of effective feedback methods in a Boolean query environment. Nineteen references are included. (EJS)

Argues that the increasing importance of database management systems (DBMS) and recognition of the information dependency of business planning are creating new job opportunities for librarians/information technicians. Highlights include development and functions of DBMSs, data and database administration, potential for librarians, and implications…

Outlines process involved in the development of a librarian-produced microcomputer-based training course for academic library student assistants: decision-making, developing the lesson, programming, keeping user informed, debugging, and implementation. Development of basic training course for student assistants at University of Evansville…

The MUMEDALA (MUlti-Media Authoring LAnguage) system is an authoring facility that is designed to enable the creation and control of a sophisticated interactive learning environment. This paper presents an overview of the system, its design features, and progress being made towards its realization. Twenty-three references are included. (Author/MBR)

The SAGRES system is an educational environment built on the World Wide Web that facilitates the presentation of the information bases of a museum in a way that is adapted to the individual characteristics of each visitor. The interaction with the system may occur individually or in groups of students. The system also offers resources to support…

An application specific style guide was produced for a large web-based multimedia and hyper-media learning project. It was introduced to 15 different sets of developers at Universities in disparate locations to promote consistency and good HCI practice for the whole project. This paper discusses the reactions to the use and practicality of the…

Virtual reality (VR) is a new computational paradigm that redefines the interface between human and computer. VR may result in a significant improvement over traditional instruction because it is not only a multimedia interactive tool but also a learning environment extremely close to reality. Few empirical studies have been done on the use of VR…

Increasingly, digital libraries are being defined as collection pointers to World Wide Web-based resources rather than collections that hold the resources themselves. Maintaining these collections is challenging due to distributed document ownership and high fluidity. Typically a collection's maintainer has to assess the relevance of changes with…

Describes the nature of electronic books that are published primarily on CD-ROM. Discusses common delivery platforms; human-computer interface issues; and authoring. Outlines pedagogical benefits and potential, including their interactivity, portability, connectivity, and dynamic behavior that make them beneficial for both individual and…

Presents an overview of the growth of work in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) over the last 40 years. Notes formative influences and contributing disciplines and discusses technology, applied problems, and the design for usability. Outlines issues that pose problems for HCI in the near future. Seven figures show growth in media. (141 references)…

Reviews literature in user acceptance and resistance to information technology design and implementation. Examines innovation diffusion, technology design and implementation, human-computer interaction, and information systems. Concentrates on the determinants of user acceptance and resistance and emphasizes how researchers and developers can…

Discussion of interaction in computer-based tutorials (CBT) focuses on a study that compared the performance of adult learners from training with three CBTs that varied the level of interactivity. The degrees of learner control, system control, and domain control are discussed, and the Lotus spreadsheet tutorials used are described. (24…

Describes methods for using videodisc technology in training human service professionals for use in college curriculums or for inservice education. Methods explained include videotaping from the learner's point of view, using a Simulation System Trainer, and a programing technique that saves learner responses for later evaluation. (10 references)…

Presents an annotated review of human factors literature that discusses computerized environments. Topics discussed include the application of office automation practices to educational environments; video display terminal (VDT) workstations; health and safety hazards; planning educational facilities; ergonomics in computerized offices; and…

This continuation of an earlier article discusses online vendors' responses to users' concerns as well as the future of online services. Maxwell Online, Dialog, Mead Data, Data-Star, and Dow Jones News/Retrieval address user needs, search strategies, databases, document retrieval and display, user interface, and cost and economic issues. (LRW)