Introduces an Internet-based teaching technique called WebQuest, developed at San Diego State University. WebQuest is an inquiry-oriented activity in which learners interact with resources on the Internet. Outlines attributes that need to be incorporated in all WebQuest designs; includes examples of WebQuest exercises and Internet addresses for…

Surveys the field and literature of geographic information systems (GIS) and spatial data representation as it relates to GIS. Highlights include GIS terms, data types, and operations; vector representations and raster, or grid, representations; spatial indexing; elevation data representations; large spatial databases; and problem areas and future…

Describes the kinds of online sources to use and processes involved in finding information on emerging markets and new industry trends. Highlights include relevance ranking in DIALOG searches; press releases; news sources; news alert services; market research reports; tracking research in progress; company information; and tracking subsidiaries.…

In presearch, students can develop an overview of a search topic; a graphic organizer in the form of a web can be used. The browse and hypertext features of electronic encyclopedias enable students to explore topics and develop search strategies. The information-gathering process should be holistic and nonlinear. (AEF)

Discusses methodological issues arising from the evaluation of the impact of IT-assisted information systems on information-seeking and research in academia. Learning and use of information technology by academics was observed over time by using diaries, interviews, discussion, and observation. Results indicate that academic research is a complex…

Provides an overview of U.S. nonprofit fee-based information services with emphasis on Purdue University's Technical Information Service. Discusses how these services can benefit profit-making brokers by supplying them documents on a nonprofit basis and by referring clients to brokers for specialized information projects. (Author/AEF)

Examines a new professional practice in higher education that supports learning through computer-mediated communication; offers a preliminary model for its development. The model involves users' participation in collaborative networked learning for exploring and developing resource knowledge and support strategies. (AEF)

Reviews technological advances of computer and noncomputer services for the deaf community, describes World Wide Web sites and library services that provide information paths for the deaf, and reviews the progress of institutions devoted to deaf education. An appendix lists World Wide Web addresses discussed in the article. (JMV)

Discusses computer software and system design in the information industry and provides an annotated bibliography of 31 resources that address the issue of design. Highlights include competition, color use, hardware and presentation design, content and packaging, screen design, graphics, and interactive multimedia. A sidebar reviews and rates seven…

Describes CHMINF-L (Chemical Information Sources Discussion List), including the history of its development on the Internet, its place in today's chemical information environment, and its possible future developments. Typical postings are described, subscription information is included, and listserv features and the future of listserv and similar…

Presents an overview of the 1990 census and its many components, including sources of census data, format availability such as CD-ROM and databases, and ways in which census data are used. The effect of new technology, especially CD-ROM, on users and reference librarians is considered. (Author/LRW)

Describes travel guidebooks as the backbone of library travel collections. Guidebooks for students and others on restricted budgets are discussed; the benefits of visiting and understanding other cultures are considered; selection guidelines are suggested; travel information in electronic formats is described; and sidebars list guidebook series…

Identified and discussed are little known Illinois collections of ethnic and religious records valuable for genealogical research. Holdings and sources are described as well as problems in researching specific ethnic or religious groups. European, African, and religious immigrants' records are highlighted. (EA)

Increasing influence of government information in electronic format poses acute problems for smaller depositories facing financial and personnel shortages. Increased dependence on regional depository libraries to provide access to such materials may cause smaller libraries to reassess their depository status. It may be necessary to revise current…

Provides current awareness sources, both paper-based and on the Internet, that are useful for keeping up on recent developments in federal information policy legislation. Coverage includes columns regularly appearing in the professional literature, trade publications, listservs, newsgroups and bulletin boards, lobbyists, and sources for tracking…