Describes computer-assisted reporting and the growing use of online databases for investigative reporting. The use of government databases, online services, and local records is discussed; creation of in-house databases is considered; software requirements are examined, including database management software; and organizational considerations are…

Critically reviews more than 20 of the best books for scholars on Ashton-Tate's dBase II and dBase III relational database management programs for microcomputers. Books are arranged by category: beginning and advanced programming guidance, program listings, and reference. A comprehensive bibliography of dBase books in print is also included. (56…

Reports on two empirical studies that examined the nature and causes of information management indeterminism in an online research environment. A knowledge-based design for alleviating indeterminism which contains a system-generated thesaurus and an inferencing engine is proposed. (Contains 63 references.) (JLB)

Discusses databases and database management systems and explains how they can be used to organize and provide access to information. Highlights include relational models, database design considerations (particularly normalization), query languages used in programming, screen displays, data integrity and security, and effects of the organizational…

Student information systems, one of the first applications of computer technology in education, are undergoing a significant transition yet again. The first major shift in SIS technologies occurred about 15 years ago when they evolved from mainframe programs to client-server solutions. Now, vendors across the board are offering centralized…

Examines novel computer filing systems which have particular application to office information storage and retrieval requirements. A variety of filing systems and their major characteristics are reviewed, ranging from network-based file servers to digital image storage and retrieval systems. Desirable characteristics of a modern electronic office…

Practitioners and researchers in the education technology field asked to give their vision of the future list laptop computers, personal digital assistants, electronic testing, wireless networking, and multimedia technology among the technology advances headed soon for schools. A sidebar lists 12 online resources. (MLF)

This document addresses curriculum requirements for the following modern secretarial functions: (1) being the primary source for storage and retrieval of information; (2) transmitting the company image to clients; and (3) filtering client contact and information to administrators served. To prepare them for storage and retrieval, secretaries…

Descriptions of microcomputer software packages currently available in Australia emphasize those used by special and school libraries. Software for library management functions, text retrieval, and database management systems are included, and geographical distribution is examined. The need for professional development courses in software…

Reviews the availability and use of educational software in elementary and secondary education. Topics discussed include the slow growth of software purchased by schools, programs that support the curriculum, word processing, tutorials, and trends toward networking and MS-DOS compatible software. (LRW)

Discusses how to determine specific software that will provide solutions for today's requirements and probable desires of tomorrow. Steps in the process of software selection are justification for new technology; analysis of needs--today's and tomorrow's; helpful analyses tools, evaluating the options; selection and negotiation; and ongoing…

Types of specialty software that can help in computer editing are discussed, including programs for file transformation, optical character recognition, facsimile transmission, spell-checking, style assistance, editing, indexing, and headline-writing. (MSE)

This paper considers the possibilities of using computers not only to amplify, but to reorganize children's thinking and mental functioning. These two different conceptualizations of the transformational role of noncomputer cognitive technologies (such as written language) in human intelligence and cognitive change are sketched, and the different…

Reviews optical technology products currently on the market, including their storage capacities, formats and uses, and outlines the benefits of integrating optical storage devices with online databases. A description of the HAYSTACK system is offered as a model of optical technology for library applications. A suggested reading list is provided.…

Uses the different search environments of information brokers and institutional searchers to illustrate the factors that should be considered when selecting microcomputers for search operations. The factors discussed include speed, storage capabilities, displays, modems, printing technologies, facsimile transmission, and portability. A directory…