Discusses online database searching and electronic information sources in Australia. Highlights include CD-ROM technology, the Internet, searching software, and content. A sidebar provides a list of 28 Australian and New Zealand electronic information sources. (AEF)

Briefly discusses the extent to which commercial publishers in Canada are using CD-ROM technology, and lists commercial and non-commercial CD-ROM products that are currently available or being developed. The description of each product includes the contents of the database, the producer, and the cost. (CLB)

Discussion of the rapid growth in CD-ROM products highlights "HyperIntro to CD-ROM Technology and Products," an electronic publishing product. Three main components of the system are described: CD-ROM Technology; CD-ROM Products; and CD-ROM Usage, which describes how CD-ROM is being used and evaluated in libraries and information centers…

Describes the development of "Europe in the Round," a CD-ROM that was designed to test the hypothesis that a combination of hypertext with mass storage would make a powerful learning tool. Screen design is discussed, including universal icons and visual effects, and field testing is described. (five references) (LRW)

Describes how an independent, commercial, academic British publisher, Routledge, initiated an electronic-publishing program. Outlines a range of electronic activities under development and issues addressed during the creation of electronic resources. Presents two case studies of early projects, and a discussion of a second-generation project. (DSK)

Reports on issues arising from the transnational piloting of a multimedia English language learning CD-ROM designed for European Works Council representatives to develop their English language skills for work in a multinational company. Describes a pilot study in Italy, Portugal and Sweden and discusses computer-mediated learning materials.…

Discussion of the widespread use of CD-ROM technology in African countries lists reasons why CD-ROM is well suited to developing countries, including advantages for database distributors, users, and funding agencies; describes a 1990 Africa-wide CD-ROM conference; and addresses goals for a proposed clearinghouse and remaining problems with CD-ROM…

Describes an approach to the design of interactive multimedia materials being developed in a European Community project called ILDIC (Integrated Learning Design in Interactive Compact Disc). The dialog that is needed between technologists and teachers is discussed; and the generic model for learning design used in the project is explained. (11…

Circulation for CD-ROMs rose from 56 per month in 1993 to 493 per month in 1996 at the City of York Public Library in Toronto, Canada. Discusses the need for technical expertise; quantity and quality of CD-ROMs; assessing the costs; product durability, damage, and losses; and legal issues under the North American Free Trade Agreement. Lists the…

Discusses the benefits of using bibliographic databases on CD-ROM for SDI (selective dissemination of information) in developing countries like India, and describes a method of running an SDI service automatically using two Terminate and Stay Resident (TSR) software programs called Stackey and Batutil. (Author/LRW)

Physicians (n=42) studied cardiac auscultation using a 15-hour CD-ROM program. Nine months later, 21 who completed a posttest showed significant improvement in identifying heart sounds. CDs were valued for opportunities to review material at an individual pace. Lack of computer skills hindered use. (Contains 26 references.) (SK)

Places the question of the relatively limited storage capacity of optical data disks when applied to very large databases into practical perspective, and considers some of the possibilities offered by the integration of different databases on a single CD-ROM. The advantages and disadvantages of three production options for integrated databases are…

This comprehensive review of databanks and CD-ROMs worldwide dealing with patents, trademarks, trade names, copyrights, and related legal opinions includes comments on database coverage and search features. Comparison tables of vendors' products are provided. (22 references) (EA)

Discusses the Scottish Newspapers Microfilming Unit's interest in conversion of microfilm to digital technology. Concerns include cost, potential market, reliability of digital technology as a preservation medium, and the necessity to have both microfilm and digital formats for preservation. Solicits feedback and information from colleagues on the…

This newsletter issue reports on the 1992 EUSIDIC annual conference. The conference program is included, and conference presentations from five sessions, entitled "Technology Trends,""Images and Imagination,""New Techniques, New Problems,""Commercial Changes,""New Audiences for Information," and…