Provides an introduction to the technical aspects of digital audiotape and compares it to other computer storage devices such as optical data disks and magnetic tape cartridges in terms of capacity, transfer rate, and cost. The current development of digital audiotape standards is also discussed. (five references) (CLB)

One in a continuing series on visual aids, this article presents rules for the use of visuals in information presentations and orientations. Topics discussed include ambiguity and unanswered questions; the need for a cost/benefits analysis; appropriate visual styles; media selection; and the effects of visualizations on performance. (LRW)

School districts are being overcharged by allowing closed roof specifications written by a single manufacturer of roofing materials. Cites examples from two Michigan school districts. Advises school districts how to choose a roofing consultant. (MLF)

Describes a project to convert and make available current MARC records in a local online file. The procedure described involves obtaining records from the National Library's Canadian MARC Record Distribution Service, Mounting the Records on DOBIS, and transferring them for ordering and cataloging purposes. (CLB)

Analyzes trends in the library automation marketplace. Market shares for online vendors are examined in terms of total installations, academic libraries, public libraries, revenues, differently sized systems, and foreign installations. Hardware availability, operating systems, and interfaces with MARC are also discussed for each vendor. A source…

Presents seven questions for tracking the effectiveness of training: (1) who is the client; (2) what is the problem or opportunity; (3) which results are to be tracked; (4) how is training linked to the results; (5) what is the total cost; (6) what information is needed; and (7) how long does it take to determine results. (SK)

Describes the concept of cost effectiveness analysis, and discusses its possible application to library technical services. The steps involved in measuring costs and quantifying performance are discussed, and examples of cost and benefit analysis of technical processes are provided. (12 notes with references) (CLB)

Explains courseware abstraction as a method of creating generalized computer assisted learning (CAL) lessons that can then be applied to provide as many concrete examples as desired. Topics discussed include generative CAL; cost efficiency; lesson verification; student evaluation; and factually exhaustive lessons. (nine references) (LRW)

Discusses the impact of computers on the art community. Topics discussed include merging technology with art, full color graphics on personal computers, commercial painting software, graphic design, visual flexibility, programing, the computer as an art medium unto itself, cost factors, and benefits to art instructors. (LRW)

In addition to cost savings, modular classrooms enable school districts to respond quickly to increased enrollments. Government officials and school administrators have endorsed modular technology because of three major benefits: (1) design advantages; (2) upgrade in finishes; and (3) financing trends. (MLF)

Pupils can learn better from each other than in some normal classrooms. This article explores current knowledge about "peer tutoring" and suggests how peer tutoring can help special groups of students and how it can be organized. (Author/TE)

In response to stresses, the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and the Johns Hopkins Hospital developed and expanded a system of medical care. A health maintenance organization was initiated and other hospitals were acquired or affiliated. The realignment of resources and patients shifted the focus to an ambulatory care setting. (Author/MLW)

Waukesha County Technical College (Wisconsin) received the Governmental Financial Officers Association "Popular Annual Financial Reporting Award" in 1993 and became the first educational entity to do so. Popular annual financial reporting is an effective way for schools to present reader-friendly reports that stress graphics and…

Discusses computer networking and the cost effectiveness of decentralization, including local area networks. A planned experiment with a centralized approach to the operation and management of file servers at the University of South Carolina is described that hopes to realize cost savings and the avoidance of staffing problems. (Contains four…

Discusses issues involved in creating educational hyperdocuments at the University of Kent (England) and examines whether the costs are justified by the benefits. Concludes that the key to making a cost-effective hyperdocument is to have widespread usage over a long period of time and to ensure portability, maintenance, and quality assurance. (JMV)