Discusses the importance of skillful visual design of computer screens and provides guidelines for screen design in the areas of information resolution, interaction of design elements, color, and typography and icons. (MES)

Describes HYTELNET, a hypertext utility which facilitates access to INTERNET resources for IBM-PC users. Software development and expansion of the utility from an electronic guide to online library catalogs to a complete directory of Internet sites are discussed. Instructions for retrieving HYTELNET are appended, and 14 references available…

Discusses hypertext and describes three abstract models that represent different levels in the design-decision process necessary for effective hypertext development. The use of information management software is discussed; combining hypertext and information retrieval models is considered; and opportunities for hypertext are described, including…

Describes TEPACIS, a computer-aided instruction package to train users of the UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization)-developed CDS/ISIS software, which is used to support the development of computerized textual databases. Discussion covers the structure of TEPACIS; development plans; hardware requirements; and…

Discusses two software products designed for use in elementary school: (1) Family Tree Maker, which can be used in social studies, language arts, and other areas; and (2) The Little Shopper's Kit, which teaches cooperative learning skills. (BC)

Reports on available and forthcoming computer software packages for reading assessment, in the areas of informal reading inventories, comprehensive assessment packages for decoding, an open-ended test generation program, diagnostic simulation, and expert systems. Offers ideas for learning about assessment techniques. (SR)

Describes the possible roles of an automation librarian working with microcomputer-based applications. Topics discussed include developing original applications; troubleshooting; software evaluation; hardware and software monitoring, maintenance, and upgrading; data protection; staff training; system documentation; negotiation and communication;…

Discusses artificial intelligence (AI) and the ideas of strong versus weak AI in relation to chess-playing computers. The concept of creativity is considered, and an attempt to develop a computer program capable of writing short stories is described. (LRW)

Notes that understanding what "free software" means and its implications for access and use of new technologies is an important component of the new literacies. Concludes that if free speech and free press are essential to the development of a general literacy, then free software can promote the development of computer literacy. (SG)

Step-by-step instructions for creating duplicate files using the Atariwriter or Atariwriter Plus word processing software are provided. An example of a standard file format for lesson plans is included. (MES)

Proposed revisions to Anglo American Cataloging Rules, 2nd edition include the general material designation "computer material" and the option to use physical description for a physical item and file description when there is no physical item in hand. All areas of the bibliographic record are discussed, including numerous examples.…

Presents eight humorous ways a consumer can tell whether he has purchased a good or bad microcomputer. (MBR)

Shows how e-mail users have evolved new forms of electronic deictic references to refer to work objects and offers design suggestions for future electronic mail software. Highlights include a study of e-mail work conversations; and changing the way we talk by transforming the conversation itself into an object of conversation. (Author/LRW)

Uses a sample data set to describe in nonmathematical terms how to implement and interpret results from a best-subsets logistic regression using the Statistical Analysis System. (SLD)

Presents a latent class extension of signal detection theory and illustrates applications of this approach. Introduces an extension of the signal detection model to more than two latent classes, with a simple restriction on the detection parameters and provides some sample programs to fit the models. (SLD)