This article surveys recent developments in hypertext software, a highly interactive nonsequential reading/writing/database approach to research and teaching that allows paths to be created through related materials including text, graphics, video, and animation sources. Described are uses, advantages, and problems of hypertext. (PB)

Describes MICROsearch, a self-contained system developed at the ERIC Clearinghouse on Information Resources for searching selected portions of the ERIC database on a microcomputer, and recommends that library media specialists use the program to teach basic online searching skills to teachers who are planning to take summer courses. (BBM)

Evaluates the Library and Information Science Abstracts on optical data disk available through SilverPlatter Information Inc. The criteria discussed include installation instructions; ease of use; retrieval facilities; the results of a test search; the screen display; documentation; characteristics of the database; and cost and updating. (CLB)

Describes a project that is developing an intelligent search intermediary to help users locate relevant passages in large full text databases. (The system automatically reformulates Boolean queries to improve search results and presents retrieved passages in decreasing order of estimated relevance.) The current status of the project and plans for…

Describes a pilot study in which a single database was constructed to provide access by both descriptors and cited references. For each query, two equivalent sets were retrieved and evaluated for relevance to the query. It is concluded that using both search methods can increase both recall and precision. (32 references) (CLB)

Describes seven activities that offer opportunities for entrepreneurs working with information: leveraging database information; customizing information; facilitating access to information; speeding up the flow of information; repackaging information; providing around the clock delivery; and integrating computer, telephone, and electronic funds…

Reviews the history of the network that supports the MELVYL online union catalog, describes current technological and policy issues, and discusses the role the network plays in integrating local automation, the union catalog, access to resource databases, and other initiatives. Sidebars by Mark Needleman discuss the TCP/IP protocol suite, internet…

Provides an overview of the construction of a longitudinal tracking system that can be used to address questions of institutional effectiveness. Considers the efficacy and logistics of using data from assessment with longitudinal data to permit long-term tracking of students. (DMM)

Argues for the establishment of a national databank for the management, collection, and analysis of information about capital provision policies for public schools at the federal, state, and local levels. (MLF)

Highlights seven resources for teaching history with computers. Titles include "Technology and the Social Studies: A Vision"; "Using Databases in History Teaching"; "Computers and Database Management in the History Curriculum"; "Social Studies. Microsoft Courseware Evaluations"; "Teaching Comparative…

Discusses the background and the current situation of computer information retrieval systems in China. Problem areas considered include: (1) lack of coordination of activities; (2) lack of data on user demand; and (3) shortages of personnel in computer science, mathematics, and systems engineering. An agenda for the future is outlined. (MES)

Discusses geographic information systems (GIS) and their use in elementary and secondary education. Databases are described, including a graphics package for maps and an alphanumeric database; and resources are included. (11 references) (LRW)

Overviews a project exploring the possibility of using CD-ROM applications and the design of exploratory didactic materials to introduce academic staff to the field of computer-assisted instruction. The project heightened the staff's awareness of electronic resources and their potential as research, teaching, and learning aids, with particular…

Discusses CD-ROM databases in college libraries and lists several ways to make local periodical holdings easily identifiable to users. Topics include standard inputting formats for library databases; updating databases; search strategies; and suggestions for teaching techniques to improve search effectiveness. (five references) (SLW)

In the 1970s, elders and volunteers of the San Luiseno Band of Mission Indians secured a grant to create a Luiseno Culture Bank of Luiseno artifacts and information gathered from museums, libraries, and private collections. Librarians from California State University, San Marcos, are now mounting the culture bank onto a HyperCard database. (KS)