Finland has developed a national computerized database containing information on the performance and costs of universities for use in internal and Ministry of Education decision making. National evaluation of different research fields is also part of the performance evaluation system. (MSE)

The origin and evolution of management programs at Stanford University Medical Center that have proven instrumental in guiding the implementation of a cost-effective microcomputer workstation environment are described. (Author/MLW)

The paper details advantages of microcomputer-based assessment with moderately and severely handicapped individuals over conventional print instruments. Noted advantages include improved accuracy, less time-consuming, greater flexibility, and the potential for information database development and regional systematic programing. One such…

This article analyzes the front end software marketplace and discusses some of the complex forces influencing it. Discussion covers intermediary market; end users (library customers, scientific and technical professionals, corporate business specialists, consumers); marketing strategies; a British front end development firm; competitive pressures;…

Explains rationale behind proposed voluntary U.S. standard computerized library catalog called the "Uniform Catalog." Design goals (should mimic manual card catalog, offer simplicity of operation and low overhead, permit modular growth to more advanced catalog), sample search, and nine commands and functions used by "Uniform…

Discusses the possibilities for effective language teaching that might occur if teachers treated the computer as they would any other classroom aid, instead of seeing it as a rival. Examples given include text manipulation, question and answer, simulation, and the use of databases. (SED)

Microcomputer uses by social researchers include writing programs, standard spreadsheets and data base management. In addition, microcomputers can increase the effectiveness and efficiency of information gathering by improving notetaking and organizing. Software developments will help make microcomputer data base management tools, now not…

This review of abstracting policies used by database producers focuses on the degree to which these policies incorporate criteria vital for acceptability of abstracts for free-text searching. Each topic in abstracting policy (abstract type, length, content, and language) is examined to consider its effect on retrieval. (MBR)

This description of the design of an online library acquisition system highlights the use of database management systems in developing information retrieval systems, and software requirements for the hierarchical menu-driven operation. A conceptual view of the database is included. (LRW)

Reports on the design and use of a computer system designed to assist online database searchers in determining the relevance of downloaded abstracts. The system, which runs on a personal computer, includes aids for individual review of abstracts and semiautomatic determination of relevance; prospects for fully automatic use are discussed. (CDD)

The document organization skills of librarians can be used to provide information management for computerized databases within corporations. Librarians should be exploring these career opportunities. (CLB)

This article discusses the major steps taken by the Association of Research Libraries, OCLC's Major Microforms Project, the Research Libraries Group, and various libraries to ensure the successful bibliographic control of microforms. Action plan of subcommittee of Association of Research Libraries Resources and Technical Services Division is…

An automated library routine management system was developed in-house to create system unique to the Library and Information Center, Lunar and Planetary Institute, Houston, Texas. A modular approach was used to allow continuity in operations and services as system was implemented. Acronyms and computer accounts and file names are appended.…

Describes a study of the computer searches performed by 14 education specialists on the ERIC database. Interviews with users indicate they felt retrieved materials were relevant, the database provides access to materials not obtainable through other sources, and the proportion of irrelevant items in the output is not significant. (MBR)

Four information retrieval packages that run on single user microcomputers--CAIRS, INMAGIC, Sci-Mate, SIRE--are examined based on following criteria: storage requirements; hardware requirements; search features (Boolean logic, comparison searching, set building, truncation, and wild card characters); system output; security; system maintenance…