Boolean logic can be a difficult concept for first-year, introductory students to grasp. This paper compares the results of Boolean and natural language searching across several databases with searches created from student research questions. Performance differences between databases varied. Overall, natural search language is at least as good as…

A three-year study at the University of Alabama compared a traditional lecture method for teaching library research skills with a course-integrated, computer-enhanced approach by assessing each method's impact on the quality of bibliographies from engineering students' term papers. In four of the five semesters, no significant differences were…

Designed primarily for use by first-time searchers, this workbook provides an overview of online searching. Following a brief introduction which defines online searching, databases, and database producers, five steps in carrying out a successful search are described: (1) identifying the main concepts of the search statement; (2) selecting a…

Presents guidelines for the development and evaluation of training sessions for the use of electronic information resources. Outline includes audience level, content, audience size; registration/publication, length of session, trainer's experience, location and facility, workstations, handouts, other equipment and resources, type of presentation,…

Describes two conceptual teaching models that facilitate end users' interrogations of online information retrieval systems. These models represent the systems' internal structures and functional outcomes based on the users' experiential frameworks. (16 references) (Author/CLB)

This 129-item annotated bibliography lists materials published in 1987 dealing with orientation to library facilities and services, instruction in use of information resources, and research and computer skills related to retrieving and using information. Publications are included on all types of Libraries--academic, public, school, and…

As libraries automate their collections and mount online public access catalogs (OPACs), they face special challenges in educating patrons to use these electronic systems effectively and efficiently. Because users are less familiar with the concept and arrangement of an OPAC than with a card catalog, less successful searches commonly occur.…

The increase in end-user searching, the advantages and limitations of front ends, and the role of the librarian in end-user searching are discussed. It is argued that librarians need to recognize that front ends can be of benefit to themselves and patrons, and to assume the role of advisors and educators for end-users. (37 references) (CLB)

Focuses on one area that the library staff cannot control: demographics. Discusses the University of Nevada, Las Vegas's (UNLV's) user population, how it has affected the development of a flexible library instruction program at UNLV, and how the online tutorial at another large urban university relates to its user population. (AEF)

This article outlines an Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC) CD-ROM bibliographic instruction (BI) session at an academic library, which is intended to produce knowledgeable and competent ERIC searchers. The 1.5 hour lecture session includes: a basic introduction to the ERIC database; narrowing down a search topic; using the thesaurus…

Describes a study that electronically monitored 11 public access terminals at the University of Colorado libraries to produce transaction logs that were used to gather statistics and analyze users' behavior when searching online catalogs. Implications for search instruction and systems design are suggested. (Contains 13 references.) (LRW)

Presents 10 tips librarians and media specialists can use in taking a query-based approach to teaching users how to search the Web. Steps for searching include: defining the nature of the quest; choosing the most useful tool; and constructing the proper search statement. A sidebar lists 17 search tools with their URLs. (AEF)

A study of users' keyword searching success and knowledge using the NOTIS online catalog at Indiana State University revealed a low rate of knowledge about keyword searching. Frequency of catalog use, previous online database searching or computer coursework, and library instruction were found to correlate well with search success and keyword…

Discusses training for online searching and describes how librarians can use evaluation-based methods to teach end users how to produce quality search results. Topics discussed include teaching end users to ask appropriate questions, teaching needed analytical and technical skills, and teaching the use of a simplified search model. (17 references)…

Describes a project which made Wilsonline and the Wilsearch software available to high school students for term paper research. Findings are discussed, including student ability to formulate search strategies, usefulness of retrieved citations, and most frequently requested databases. The value of Wilsearch is compared with that of local library…