The contradictory nature of the phrase user-oriented interface (UOI) as commonly applied to retrieval systems is discussed, and a different approach to the problem made feasible through improvements in the technology is described. (Author/JPF)

This dissertation reports the development and application of a new methodology for the measurement and evaluation of interactive computing, applied to either the users of an interactive computing system or to the system itself, including the service computer and any communications network through which the service is delivered. The focus is on the…

FRED (a Front End for Databases) was conceived to alleviate data access difficulties posed by the heterogeneous nature of online databases. A hardware/software layer interposed between users and databases, it consists of three subsystems: user-interface, database-interface, and knowledge base. Architectural alternatives for this database machine…

This paper describes the construction and implementation of an autoprogramming system. An autoprogrammer is an interactive computer programming system which automatically constructs computer programs from example computations executed by the user. The example calculations are done in a scratch pad fashion at a computer display, and the system…

A tutorial introduction to the evaluation of communications software (enables microcomputer to function as terminal for purposes of communicating with remote device) covers computing hardware, modems, installation and operation, file transfers, printer controls, unattended reception, terminal emulation, documentation, and price. Detailed reviews…

Discusses intelligent front-end processors designed to impose uniform standards on multiple databases and assist searchers, including motivation for development, prototypes from research community, commercial systems using microcomputers, capabilities and problems encountered in developing Franklin Institute's Online Database Search Assistance…

Discusses theory of mental models--i.e., representations of relationships within a system which enable the user to produce mental simulations of the system's actions and develop ways of dealing with it--and its implications for user training, interface design, and overall systems design. (EJS)

With emphasis on currently operating and planned systems that assist users in accessing available network services, this report identifies the techniques used in network access devices. By examining these devices, the trend toward improving the interface between the user and the computer is brought more clearly into focus and up to date. One…

The Lincoln Training System (LTS-3) is a computer-assisted instructional system for training Air Traffic Controllers and Basic Electronic students in the United States Air Force. This document describes the components of the system prior to its initial field trial in mid-April 1972 at Kessler Air Force Base. The system is made up of 14 Basic…

Provides a step-by-step guide to creating an interactive video program, using technology that allows a computer program to control a video program, and discusses the concept, the equipment (microcomputer, videoplayer, and video interface card), and the process involved. A buyer's guide to video interface cards is included. (EJS)

Discusses issues involved in offering printing for online library catalogs and weighs advantages and disadvantages of screen printing versus remote printing--speed, quality, privacy, convenience, noise, control, costs, accessibility and service. Additional technical issues discussed are buffered versus unbuffered asynchronous printer ports,…

The basic objective of the development of man-machine interactive systems is to design a system that will most effectively take into account the limitations and talents of both man and machine, recognizing that the human factors are, in certain aspects, diametrically opposed to those of the computer. This document briefly investigates those…

Briefly reviews history of library automation before discussing factors that libraries should consider before choosing to go online (collection size, machine-readable database, computer equipment, costs), and features of online catalogs (database organization, search features, authority files, display options). Information about selected online…

Introduces educators to possibilities of computer graphics using an inexpensive computer system which takes advantage of existing equipment (35mm camera, super 8 movie camera, VHS video cassette recorder). The concept of the "art machine" is explained, highlighting input and output devices (X-Y plotter, graphic tablets, video…

This essay and 48-item annotated bibliography provide information on potential problems of computer terminal use--cathode ray tube, video display unit, video display terminal--in libraries. Information on ergonomics (matching people to machines in humane way), eyes and vision, and radiation is included. (EJS)