Many reference librarians still rely on manual searches to access vertical files, ready reference files, and other information stored in card files, drawers, and notebooks scattered around the reference department. Automated access to these materials via microcomputers using database management software may speed up the process. This study focuses…

Since its release in 1976, LOGIST has been the most widely used computer program for estimating the parameters of the three-parameter logistic item response model developed by A. Birnbaum. An alternative program, BILOG, developed by R. J. Mislevy and R. D. Bock (1983), has recently become available. This paper compares the approaches taken by the…

Recent improvements in the human factors elements incorporated in the design of personal computer interfaces are illustrated by detailed analyses of two microcomputers and their word processors (Osborne 1/WordStar and Apple's Macintosh/MacWrite). The vital steps in operation are described through analyses of the behavioral requirements involved in…

First of a three-part series provides an overview of pre-enhancement DIALOG and QUESTEL information systems including their histories, databases, query languages, and services. Description of implementation of DIALOG Version 2 and QUESTEL PLUS and a general comparison of system features provide a preview of specific comparisons in part 2. (EJS)

Describes two studies designed to identify and validate principles of effective microcomputer manual design. In the first, instructional science students rated design principles of four computer manuals using a computer manual checklist; in the second, instructional effectiveness of these design principles was tested by comparing microcomputer…

Description of the portable Apple IIc includes its flat panel display; a new microprocessor, the 65CO2; its new design language; layout; documentation, including interactive tutorials; software support; and cost. Apple IIc's competitors and its new printer, the Scribe, are also discussed. (MBR)

Machine translation has been criticized for its inability to provide language style, but for specialized or technical texts, of which there are increasing numbers, machine translation with its obligatory post-editing may be effective, and the "style" of these translations may be a reflection of the error patterns caught in post-editing. (MSE)

Two third grade classes in a private school in North Carolina were given keyboarding instruction using Sunburst's "Type To Learn." So that the effects of color-coding could be examined, one class was given standard keyboards to use (control group), while the other was given keyboards that were color-coded according to proper finger placement…

Describes and compares two methods for developing multimedia courseware for use on the Internet: an authoring tool called Shockwave, and an object-oriented language called Java. Topics include vector graphics, browsers, interaction with network protocols, data security, multithreading, and computer languages versus development environments. (LRW)

Results from two Monte Carlo studies in item response theory (comparisons of computer item analysis programs and Bayes estimation procedures) are analyzed with inferential methods to illustrate the procedures' strengths. It is recommended that researchers in item response theory use both descriptive and inferential methods to analyze Monte Carlo…

Describes a project in which graduate students with knowledge engineering experience used five different microcomputer-based shells to build a prototype application of an expert system to assist library patrons with business reference questions. The strengths and weaknesses of each product are discussed and compared. (seven references) (CLB)

Identifies five design requirements for electronic encyclopedias, based on the content and structure of printed encyclopedias and the uses that people make of them. Three existing hypertext programs (Owl International's Guide, HyperCard, and HyperTIES) are compared in terms of their ability to satisfy these design requirements. (CLB)

Compares information requirement-elicitation (IRE) methods for decision support systems (DSS) with knowledge acquisition (KA) methods for expert systems (ES) development. The definition and architectures of ES and DSS are compared and the systems' development cycles and IRE/KA methods are discussed. Differences are noted between ES and DSS…

Presents results of searching seven World Wide Web (WWW) databases with the same three questions and evaluates the performance of each database in answering the questions. Tables show search results and basic database information. Sidebars list WWW databases not studied and address the future of Web searching and fee-based WWW databases. (JMV)

Examines The Internet Adapter (TIA), an Internet protocol that allows computers to be directly on the Internet and access graphics over standard telephone lines using high-speed modems. Compares TIA's system requirements, performance, and costs to other Internet connections. Sidebars describe connections other than TIA and how to find information…