Argues that the expert is partisan, inexpert, and manipulated. Concludes "that American society is not operated in a rational, technologically based way. In self-help activities, in the thrust toward consumer advocacy, in new notions of causation and cure, a more humane and comprehensive understanding of our social environment is being offered."…

Explains the nature of the Advanced Astronomy Camp (AAC), which is held at an observatory at the University of Arizona. For one week, students are immersed in doing science and engineering, using modern astronomical equipment under the guidance of scientists and graduate students. (DDR)

Reviews the work and perspectives of Sheila Tobias. Focuses on her conviction that an understanding of history and historical contexts can prevent repetition of past mistakes as they pertain to females and society. (DDR)

Provides details of a study that attempts to broaden the understanding of mathematics by investigating how applied mathematicians and biologists collaborate in developing dynamic population models. (DDR)

Using the methods of ethnography of communication, this three-part study investigates time and timing, social elements, and individual information behavior in sense making. Argues that the sense-making concept captures how information behavior creates meaning and that a research focus on information and information-seeking divides people from…

Presents a case study of a computer scientist learning and using the Cognitive Walkthrough (CW) technique to assess a multimedia authoring tool. Compares predictions by the analysis to the usability problems found in empirical usability tests. Presents several hypotheses about the cause of low effectiveness, which suggest that additional…

Describes a new educational program for multilingual information officers at the Institut Universitaire de Technologie of the Toulouse University of Sciences (France). General and technical courses are given in French and foreign languages so that graduates can take positions and quickly become effective in organizations with international…

Differences in research expectations from the perspectives of the consumer (parents and individuals with autism) and the professional academic or research scientist are highlighted. The role of parent groups in supporting and receiving support from the National Institutes of Health is noted. (DB)

This literature review examines the status of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics; reasons women do not choose careers in these fields; and gender influences on technophobia. Concludes with strategies such as early exposure, supportive mentors and role models, information to enhance technological literacy, and ways to…

Provides an historical overview of the role of the librarian in the university; discusses the academic librarian as information professional; and presents a case study of an academic library. Examines the study findings and implications, and discusses the skills (human relations, technical, cognitive, and behavioral) required of academic…

Science teachers need to do science as well as teach it in order to bridge the gap between the scientific community and science education. Describes the experiences of a teacher who participated in the Research for Teachers program (RET). (DDR)

Discusses work done by information professionals and the increase in teleworking, using telecommunications technology; considers teleworkers' information needs; examines ways in which library and information science professionals can facilitate teleworkers' information access; and investigates information environments of 20 teleworkers and 20…

This section includes five articles on research and librarianship including a case study on research and practice in academic libraries; select peer-reviewed journals that examine the current state of public library research (1996-2000); development of research on school library media programs; benefits of collaborative authorship for librarians…

Discusses the implications of withdrawing support for programs that bring amateur and professional astronomers into the schools. Provides insight into the perspectives of the scientists who are involved with schools as well as the perspective of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). (DDR)

Information managers promote research generally by knowing about knowing and by working within a paradigm that spans all paradigms. Argues that information professionals underestimate their actual and potential influence on other disciplines and that an emphasis on practical skills obscures the role of theory. Discusses the need for further…