Dissertations / Theses: 'Online bibliographic searching'

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Stafford, Matthew. "Online searching and connecting caching /." Digital version accessible at:, 2000. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/utexas/main.

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Masters, Gary E. (Gary Everett). "The Effects of Increased Equipment Speed on Online Database Searching Practices." Thesis, North Texas State University, 1987. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc332315/.

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This study reports changes in online database searching at North Texas State University when equipment speed was increased. Data were from database vendor invoices and price and sale data of online equipment. The hypotheses examined the relationship between the decrease in the cost of online equipment and the change to faster online equipment and the change in the number of databases that changed for online types. The change in equipment was related to changes in the number of offline prints per hour, the average time per search, the average number of descriptors per search, the number of searches per month, and the rank order of database use over the studied period. The increase in the number of databases with billed types was related to the number of online billed types produced. The number of prints was related to the number of billed types. Time spent online was examined for annual seasonal cycles. The major statistical tool was time-series analysis, although other methods were applied.

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Pera, Maria Soledad. "Improving library searches using word-correlation factors and folksonomies /." Diss., CLICK HERE for online access, 2009. http://contentdm.lib.byu.edu/ETD/image/etd2765.pdf.

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Heesop, Kim. "A study of the influence of choice of record fields on retrieval performance." Thesis, Northumbria University, 2002. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.391752.

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Leung, Chun-keung, and 梁振強. "Browse or search?: a behavioral study of library catalogue users." Thesis, The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong), 2004. http://hub.hku.hk/bib/B29960630.

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Kubic, Joseph Craig. "The establishment of a program of theological bibliography using databases for students at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary." Theological Research Exchange Network (TREN), 2006. http://www.tren.com/search.cfm?p054-0252.

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Carman, Nicholas. "LibraryThing tags and Library of Congress Subject Headings a comparison of science fiction and fantasy works : submitted to the School of Information Management, Victoria University of Wellington in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Library and Information Studies /." ResearchArchive@Victoria e-Thesis, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10063/1272.

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Creel, Stacy Hastings Samantha K. "Are online catalogs for children giving them what they need? children's cognitive development and information seeking and their impact on design /." [Denton, Tex.] : University of North Texas, 2007. http://digital.library.unt.edu/permalink/meta-dc-3984.

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Evans, Paul. "A multimedia system to instruct novice users of online library catalogues." View thesis, 1996. http://library.nepean.uws.edu.au/about/staff/thesis.html.

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Park, Il-jong. "Evaluation by Korean students of major online public access catalogs in selected academic libraries." Thesis, University of North Texas, 1994. http://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/33376824.html.

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Sullivan, Kathryn. "Dissertation Report IS 8995 Using Dialog CIP At Winona State University To Educate End-Users." NSUWorks, 1991. http://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/27024072.html.

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Creel, Stacy. "Are Online Catalogs for Children Giving Them What They Need? Children's Cognitive Development and Information Seeking and Their Impact on Design." Thesis, University of North Texas, 2007. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc3984/.

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Research shows children in an online environment often search by browsing, which relies heavily on recognition and content knowledge, so catalog systems for children must use effective symbols or pictorial representations, which correspond with children's own cognitive schema and level of recognition knowledge. This study was designed to look at the success of young children (ages 5 to 8) in searching 3 online public library catalogs designed for them, and it focused specifically on the pictorial representations and text descriptors used in the systems' browsing hierarchy. The research sought answer whether young children (ages 5 to 8) are really poor searchers because of cognitive development and lack of technology skills or if system design is the major reason for poor search results; i.e., Do current children's online catalog designs function in a manner that is compatible with information seeking by children? Although these results can not be generalized, this study indicates that there was a disconnect between the cognitive abilities of young users and catalog design. The study looked at search success on the 3 catalogs in relation to the catalog characteristics and individual user characteristics and makes 3 significant contributions to the field of library and information science. The first contribution is the modification of an existing model posed by Cooper and O'Connor and modified by Abbas (2002). The second significant contribution is the proposal of a new model, Creel's second best choice (SBC) model, that addresses the cognitive gap and design flaws that impact the choices participants made. The third significant contribution is that this study addresses and fills a gap in the literature.

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Evans, Paul. "A multimedia system to instruct novice users of online library catalogues." Thesis, View thesis, 1996. http://hdl.handle.net/1959.7/uws:342.

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The research reported here focuses on the application of multimedia to the teaching of information skills in academic libraries. Specifically, the research project has involved the development and evaluation of a multimedia system to instruct novice users of online library catalogues. The research has included an investigation of the characteristics and needs of novice library users. The ways in which novices approach using library-based information technologies which may be applied to any instructional programme for teaching novices how to use library-based information technologies. The research project has involved the development of a comprehensive multimedia system based on the theoretical model. The multimedia system was designed using Macromedia Director v.4.04. The production techniques and operation of the multimedia system are described in some detail. The multimedia system was evaluated and tested using formative evaluation strategies. The evaluation involved the prototype system being reviewed by expert librarians, and multimedia producers, as well as novice users of online library catalogues. The information gathered during the evaluation was used to make suggestions about improvements to the design of the prototype. The results of the evaluation are reported and analysed.

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Connan, James. "Collection, evaluation and selection of scientific literature : machine learning, bibliometrics and the World Wide Web." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/49886.

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Thesis (MSc)--University of Stellenbosch, 2004. ENGLISH ABSTRACT: We present a system that uses statistical machine learning to identify and extract bibliography information from scientific literature. Techniques for finding and gathering useful information from the ever growing volume of knowledge on the World Wide Web (WWW), are investigated. We use hidden Markov models both for recognition of bibliography styles and extraction of bibliographic information with an accuracy of up to 97%. The accuracy with which we are able to extract this information allows us to present a case study in which we apply methods of citation analysis to information extracted from three areas of machine learning. We use this information to identify core sets of papers that have made significant contributions to the fields of hidden Markov models, neural networks and recurrent neural networks. AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Ons bied 'n sisteem aan wat gebruik maak van statistiese masjiene wat leer om bibliografiese inligting uit wetenskaplikke literatuur te identifiseer en ontgin. Tegnieke wat aangewend word vir die verkenning en insameling van nuttige inligting vanaf die snel groeiende kennisbron van die WWW, word ondersoek. Ons gebruik verskuilde Markov modelle vir die herkenning van verwysingsstyl en ontginning van verwysingsinligting met 'n akuraatheidspeil van to 97%. Hierdie hoë ontginningsakuraatheid stelons in staat om 'n toepassing van die tegniek op die veld van masjiene wat leer toe te pas. Ons rapporteer hoe ons die tegnieke gebruik het om literatuur wat beduidende bydraes in die velde van verskuilde Markov modelle, neurale netwerke en terugkerende neurale netwerke, te identifiseer.

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Biagi, Aline Maria. "O perfil da produção científica sobre capital natural na Região Metropolitana de Curitiba." Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná, 2018. http://repositorio.utfpr.edu.br/jspui/handle/1/2956.

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Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES) O objetivo geral desta dissertação foi analisar o perfil das publicações realizadas sobre capital natural na região metropolitana de Curitiba (RMC). A pesquisa foi baseada no modelo analítico proposto por Meadows, na abordagem dos três capitais (capital natural, capital social e capital construído), utilizando-se especificamente da “lente" capital natural. Tal análise buscará estabelecer relações e correlações entre a produção científica e o contexto territorial escolhido, demonstrando a forma como o capital natural da região é retratado dentro da produção científica sobre a mesma. Como metodologia, a pesquisa se baseia na revisão sistemática e na análise de conteúdo, utilizando-se de método misto para caracterizar quantitativa e qualitativamente a produção científica realizada na RMC no período de 1992 à 2017. A partir da categorização do capital natural em oito categorias, foi possível inferir sobre as principais tendências temáticas e temporais de pesquisa, além de avaliar este perfil a partir dos indicadores de qualidade, fator de impacto, SJR e SNIP. Notou-se uma maior tendência temática sobre o tema biodiversidade, justificado pelo elevado número de mananciais e remanescentes florestais na região, porém quando observado o número de citações as publicações sobre ar/clima possuem maior visibilidade na comunidade científica. The general objective of this dissertation was to analyze the profile of publications on natural capital in the metropolitan region of Curitiba (RMC). The research was based on the analytical model proposed by Meadows, in the approach of the three capitals (natural capital, social capital and built capital), using specifically the "lens" natural capital. This analysis will seek to establish relationships and correlations between the scientific production and the chosen territorial context, demonstrating how the natural capital of the region is portrayed within the scientific production on the same. As a methodology, the research is based on systematic review and content analysis, using a mixed method to quantitatively and qualitatively characterize the scientific production carried out in the MRC from 1992 to 2017. From the categorization of natural capital into eight categories , it was possible to infer about the main thematic and temporal trends of research, besides evaluating this profile from the indicators of quality, impact factor, SJR and SNIP. There was a greater thematic tendency on the biodiversity theme, justified by the high number of sources and forest remnants in the region, but when the number of citations is observed, air / climate publications have greater visibility in the scientific community.

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Berger, Michael George. "Information-seeking in the online bibliographic system an exploratory study /." 1994. http://books.google.com/books?id=WNPgAAAAMAAJ.

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Dalrymple, Prudence W. "Retrieval by reformulation in two library catalogs toward a cognitive model of searching behavior /." 1987. http://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/16845276.html.

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Shenouda, Wagih A. "Online search strategy modification by end users." 1991. http://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/25736866.html.

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Leazer, Gregory Hart. "A conceptual plan for the description and control of bibliographic works." 1993. http://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/30262743.html.

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Chang, Ching-Kuch. "The effects of cognitive complexity, need for cognition, and orientation toward learning on information search strategies." 1991. http://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/31251680.html.

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Austin, Jill. "Influence of cost consciousness and heuristic approach on online search performance." 1991. http://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/26845516.html.

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Puttapithakporn, Somporn. "A qualitative analysis of user error in searching an online public catalog system." 1994. http://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/36454268.html.

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Thesis (Ph. D.)--Indiana University, 1994. Includes vita and abstract. eContent provider-neutral record in process. Description based on print version record. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 185-199).

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Gauch, Susan Evalyn. "An expert system for searching in full-text." 1990. http://books.google.com/books?id=aLPgAAAAMAAJ.

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Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 1990. eContent provider-neutral record in process. Description based on print version record. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 120-125).

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Crosby, Ellen. "User interaction with an online catalog measures of success /." 1991. http://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/26094050.html.

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Abels, David Mark. "Sequencing items in multiple-item displays on online public access catalogs." 1993. http://books.google.com/books?id=QMzgAAAAMAAJ.

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Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of California, Los Angeles, 1993. Vita. eContent provider-neutral record in process. Description based on print version record. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 191-199).

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Carlyle, Allyson. "The second objective of the catalog an evaluation of collocation in online catalog displays /." 1994. http://books.google.com/books?id=1zLhAAAAMAAJ.

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Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of California, Los Angeles, 1994. Vita. eContent provider-neutral record in process. Description based on print version record. Includes bibliographical references (leaves).

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Gordon, Carol Ann. "Concept mapping as a pre-search activity in the research process." 1995. http://books.google.com/books?id=wtzgAAAAMAAJ.

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Wall, Thomas B. "Testing the efficacy of augmenting OPAC displays with bibliographic enhancements a systematic study /." 1994. http://books.google.com/books?id=xsrgAAAAMAAJ.

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Yoo, Jae-Ok. "Field dependence/independence and the performance of the online searcher." 1990. http://books.google.com/books?id=wNjgAAAAMAAJ.

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Connell, Tschera Harkness. "Librarian subject searching in online catalogs an exploratory study of knowledge used /." 1991. http://books.google.com/books?id=7vXgAAAAMAAJ.

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Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1991. Vita. eContent provider-neutral record in process. Description based on print version record. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 240-244).

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Van, der Westhuizen Duan. "Teaching information technology in education using online education." Thesis, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7441.

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D.Ed. The aim of the study is to determine whether the module Information Technology in Education can be taught by using online education. In order to attain the set aim, the objectives can be stated as follows: To undertake a study of the literature to determine: The dimensions of distance education. The dimensions of online education. To determine, by means of a field study, the following: The experiences of students who participated in the virtual classroom. The experiences of lecturers who participated in the virtual classroom. To determine, by comparison of examination marks, whether students achieve the same when being taught by means of online education as they do when they are being taught conventionally. Finally, to suggest a programme approach for an online implementation of the subject-field Information Technology in Education in specific South African contexts where students have limited computer skills and they do not have direct access to the Internet.

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Xu, Hong. "Redundancy and uniqueness of subject access points in online catalogs." 1996. http://books.google.com/books?id=g93gAAAAMAAJ.

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Hill, Linda Ladd. "Access to geographic concepts in online bibliographic files effectiveness of current practices and the potential of a graphic interface /." 1990. http://books.google.com/books?id=jwHhAAAAMAAJ.

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Slack, Frances. "OPACs using enhanced transaction logs to achieve more effective online help for subject searching /." 1991. http://books.google.com/books?id=U9jgAAAAMAAJ.

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Thesis (Ph. D.)--Manchester Polytechnic, 1991. Appendices B, C, E, H, and I not reproduced for copyright reasons. "DX-96299." eContent provider-neutral record in process. Description based on print version record. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 226-237).

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Snelson, Pamela. "Relationships between access and use in information systems remote access to and browsing of online catalogs /." 1993. http://books.google.com/books?id=W8zgAAAAMAAJ.

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Tibbo, Helen Ruth. "Abstracts, online searching, and the humanities an analysis of the structure and content of abstracts of historical discourse /." 1989. http://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/23865626.html.

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Smith, Elizabeth Szyszkowski. "Search strategies for computer stored information a microcomputer tutorial /." 1989. http://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/22759094.html.

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Newbold, Margaret C. "A comparison of sixth-grade students' access, retrieval, and utilization of information obtained from CD-ROM and print sources." 1993. http://books.google.com/books?id=PsecAAAAMAAJ.

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Thesis (Ed. D.)--University of Missouri--St. Louis, 1993. Includes abstract. "March, 1993." eContent provider-neutral record in process. Description based on print version record. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 181-187).

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Brown, Mary Esther. "Children's naming of subject categories developmental differences in the invariant properties of category labelling /." 1994. http://books.google.com/books?id=j9PgAAAAMAAJ.

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Shute, Steven Joseph Smith Philip J. Shulman Harvey G. "An empirical investigation of knowledge-based search tactics in the topic refinement behavior of online bibliographic searchers." 1989. http://catalog.hathitrust.org/api/volumes/oclc/26457229.html.

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Lee, Jeong-Mee Burnett Kathleen Marie. "Usability assessment of integrated cataloging and metadata services an exploratory study of the OCLC Connexion system /." 2004. http://etd.lib.fsu.edu/theses/available/etd-11122004-145122.

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Thesis (Ph. D.)--Florida State University, 2004. Advisor: Dr. Kathleen Burnett, Florida State University, School of Information Studies. Title and description from dissertation home page (viewed Jan. 13, 2005). Includes bibliographical references.

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Gachie, Emily Wanjiru. "Evaluation of a new online learning resource : the human computer interface design." Thesis, 2003. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/4104.

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With the increasing demand for online learning, well-designed computer online learning resources are indispensable. User interfaces evaluation has become a critical quality attribute of interactive software intended to meet the requirements of the user groups. It is this aspect of adaptations that make them critical for the study of evaluation of user interfaces. This study describes a preliminary evaluation of the user interface design of a new online learning resource (Open Learning System). The main objectives of the study are to investigate the effect of the interaction on the user (usability, efficiency, effectiveness and satisfaction), to assess the extent of the system (resource) functionality and to identify specific problems in the design (aspects of design that cause unexpected results or confusion). This will form part of iterative design and testing process of the new interface, which seeks to evaluate the success of the interface within the framework of the fundamental HCI principles under guidelines of the constructivists learning approach. The Open Learning System (OLS) is grounded on the constructivist-based learning approach. The underlying philosophy of the system assumes when learners are engaged in a social learning context, they actively construct knowledge, therefore the resource is considered as a tool to support learning and not an end in itself. By so doing it is geared to provide greater access to information, support Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC) using tools such as e-mail, chat and discussion foruI? and creating context for learners' work and peer review. A theoretical framework for evaluating the OLS was developed and proposed which comprised of the constructivist epistemology, Rich Environment for Active Learning (REAL), the User Centred Design (UCD) approach and the Human Computer Interface (HCI) design principles. This integrated theoretical framework has been referred to as 'Designing-by-Constructivism' model. The study investigates the use of the OLS by two sets of users: staff members (module creators) and learners (module consumers). In view of the fact that the data collected is qualitative, the approach assumes the use of semi-structured questionnaires, evaluation matrix and interviews. The information/feedback gathered will assist the developers to do preliminary reviews. The study will also be useful to academics pursuing more HCI issues or those with an interest in developing learning resources. The main elements of the 'Designing-by-Constructivism' model were present in the resource. The results analysis indicates that the resource supports collaborative learning and the use of authentic activities in learning. This serves as an intrinsic motivation to most of the users. The results also show a high degree of user satisfaction and appreciation of OLS resource. Largely, the participants are satisfied that the overall OLS design met their needs. The major contribution being, "OLS is interactive and user friendly". However, some users have expressed the desire to have more tools incorporated into the resource, while others have expressed concern about difficulties in logging into the system. Thesis (M.Sc.)-University of Natal, Durban, 2003.

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Shiweda, Tertu Ponhele. "Web-based information behavior of high school learners in Oshana region, Namibia." Thesis, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/10766.

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The aim of this study was to investigate the Web-based information behaviour of high school learners in Oshana Region in Namibia. The study also considerd the challenges faced by learners when searching the Web for information. For many years in the history of library and information services, print-based information had been the main source of information. However, since the emergence of the Internet and its rapid development, the Internet has provided an almost unlimited pool of Web-based resources, thus becoming a powerful source of information. The Web is now established as the main medium for the wide dissemination of information across the Internet. Within the academic context learners throughout the world are able to retrieve seemingly endless volumes of information across all disciplines and from all over the globe. It is therefore important to study the behavior of young people in relation to Web-based information because it is today one of their most important sources of knowledge. The findings of this study could assist in curriculum design, especially with regard to Basic Information Science (a subject offered in schools in Namibia), which incorporates information literacy and information-seeking skills development. In addition the study provides some insight into the information and computer literacy levels of learners and proposes ways of responding to these, thus assisting in further developing these important literacies. The study was guided by Wilson’s (1999) model of information behaviour. The model attempts to describe an information-seeking activity and suggests relationships among stages in information-seeking behaviour. The study has adopted a quantitative approach as its methodology. Data from a total of 160 respondents was collected using a questionnaire that consisted of both open ended and closed questions. The study’s research questions investigate how, where and when do Grade 12 learners access the Internet, for what purposes do Grade 12 learners use the Web when looking for information, how do Grade 12 learners search for information on the Web, what are the Web information searching skills of Grade 12 learners, what sources of information on the Web do Grade 12 learners use, how do Grade 12 learners evaluate and use information found on the Web, and what are the challenges faced by Grade 12 learners when searching the Web for information. The survey concentrated on Matric learners (grade 12) from Mweshipandeka HS and Gabriel Taapopi SSS in the Oshana region of Namibia. The results were analysed using SPSS as a tool for data analysis. An interpretation of the findings of this study shows that learners Web-searching skills are inadequate. Overall, there was a high level of familiarity with various Web-information sources such as search engines, although users limited themselves mainly to a few sources such as the search engines Google and Yahoo and the online encyclopedia, Wikipedia. Learners were not aware of Google's limitations and of the existence of academic, often library-funded, information sources such as databases and electronic journals. The present study found strong indications that grade 12 learners lack information-evaluation skills as well as acknowledgement skills and that they are not aware of what constitutes plagiarism. This appears to be a result of poor training in schools. However, the status of learner’s access to the Internet is good. Both schools involved in this study provide learners with physical access to the Internet. Thesis (M.I.S.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2013.

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Choonoo, Pearl. "A comparative study of concept-based and procedural teaching methods in user instruction of the OPAC at the M.L. Sultan Technikon." Thesis, 1999. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/5767.

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The purpose of this research was firstly to compare the differences in online performance between two groups trained to use the Online Public Access Catalogue at the M L Sultan Technikon using two different types of instruction, namely the teaching methods of concept-based and procedural instruction. Secondly, the objective of the research was to compare these two teaching methods in relation to first year students at the M L Sultan Technikon with differing levels of library experience, computer experience and English language experience. To meet the objectives of the research, literature was reviewed and analysed from various sources. Original research was conducted using the method of a quasi-experiment. A random sample of 120 students were split between two teaching conditions, with sixty participants in a concept-based teaching condition and sixty participants in a procedural teaching condition. Research instruments used were a background questionnaire to collect demographic information, a pre-and post test to evaluate significant differences between the teaching methods, an evaluation questionnaire to collect affective responses, direct observation, and transaction log monitoring of the searches conducted. In a one-hour lecture the concept-based group were taught general search concepts using model-based instruction techniques and the procedural lecture demonstrated methods of searching in a step-by-step fashion. Data analysis made use of Microsoft Access 97 and Excell 97 software to code and verify the data, and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), v9.0 to conduct statistical analysis. The research found that first year students were generally inexperienced in the use of the online information retrieval system. The majority of the participants in the study did not have any computer experience, and made use of English as a second language. Others, although not in the majority were found to have low levels of library experience. Performance on pre-tests were generally low for these participants while those who had experience in the use of libraries, computers and who regarded English as a first language were able to make fair use of the system for simple tasks such as author and title. This suggested that prerequisite competencies needed for online searching were, library literacy, computer literacy and some proficiency in the use of English. Performance on search tasks found no significant differences on simple tasks between the teaching conditions. However, variances in performance as a result of individual differences were found. On difficult tasks participants fared better with concept-based instruction resulting in significant differences in performance. The findings of this research supported the need for online instruction to novice end-users, taking cognisance of the need for suitable venues equipped with adequate hardware, provision of staff, and allocation of sufficient time for such instruction. The research proposes that model-based teaching be encouraged, especially for difficult tasks. In the decisions made however, instruction must take note of the background of participants. Further proposals for instruction and other related aspects are discussed in the research. Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 1999.

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Addo, Hillar Gbagidi Komla. "An investigation of the role of microcomputers as information retrieval tools in the greater Pietermaritzburg schools' water audit projects." Thesis, 1999. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/5748.

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In South Africa, government (Mbeki 1996:37) and educators (SAIDE Report 1998:9) have expressed concern over the provision of microcomputers for learners. Their provision to schools would allow their effective use across the curriculum and enhance education. This study investigated the role of microcomputers as information retrieval tools in the 1997 schools' Water Audit projects in the greater Pietermaritzburg area. The study considered, firstly, a discussion of environmental education with emphasis on water conservation, and secondly the Water Audit projects. An overview of issues relating to microcomputer systems as information retrieval tools in education was presented. A descriptive survey method was employed for the study, with questionnaires as the data collection technique. Thirty out of 40 teachers/school project co-ordinators were sampled, with a 24 (80%) response. Twenty percent of 550 pupils who participated in the projects also responded. Data was presented by the use of tables. The study revealed an unequal availability of microcomputers among the schools in the departments of education, as they existed prior to 1994, that participated in the projects. Findings also revealed that only a minority of pupils used the microcomputer system for information retrieval during the projects. The use of hard copy sources was significantly high within the departments. A high number of pupils who used the microcomputer found it useful. A higher number that used hard copy sources found them useful. Training of pupils to acquire computer and information skills was inadequate. Major problems encountered during the projects included congestion, lack of computer skills on the part of both teachers and pupils and inadequate training of participants. The study found infrastructural backlogs and logistical problems as hindrances to the delivery of education in South Africa using microcomputers. Non-involvement of media teachers negatively impacted on the results of the projects. It was recommended that schools without microcomputers liaise with donor agencies to acquire microcomputers, while government initiates policies to address the issue of equity. Educators and media teachers should be given concerted training in computer and information skills, as training underpins the use of microcomputers in an information age school. Thesis (MIS)-University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 1999.

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Soyizwapi, Lindiwe. "Use of electronic databases by postgraduate students in the Faculty of Science and Agriculture at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg." Thesis, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/1930.

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The purpose of this study was to investigate the use of electronic databases by postgraduate students in the Faculty of Science and Agriculture at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, with a view to proposing a set of recommendations based on the findings that would contribute to a more effective use of these databases. The study focussed on the use students made of electronic databases provided by the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg Library and any other electronic databases which provided information and were needed for their studies. The study population consisted of 500 registered postgraduate students. The survey instrument used to elicit data was a self-administered questionnaire that was distributed to a sample population of 100 postgraduate students. The questionnaire sought to establish if postgraduate students used electronic databases, which electronic databases postgraduate students used and the reasons for their choice, to identify problems postgraduate students encountered, how students became aware of the databases and how often they used the available databases. A total of 65 postgraduate students responded, a response rate of 65%. The results were analysed in terms of frequency responses and they are graphically displayed in the form of tables and graphs. The study found that postgraduate students did use the electronic databases, but a few of the databases were not used. A number of problems were experienced when using the databases. Students became aware of the availability of electronic databases from a variety of sources such as friends, library orientation programmes and academic staff. Search engines were identified as a resource that was very popular with almost all the students. There was a need for training on use of the databases and a need for improving access for all campus and off-campus users. Recommendations for action and further research, based on the conclusions of the study, are made. Thesis (M.I.S.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2005.

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Constable, Festus Tsepo. "Training needs for electronic information use in the College of Law at the University of South Africa." Diss., 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/1333.

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The purpose of this study was to investigate the training needs of law academics by examining their ability to use legal electronic information resources at Unisa effectively. Using the survey method, a questionnaire was used to collect data. The data was descriptively analysed. The study revealed that law academics are aware of the wide variety of electronic resources relevant to their work. Further, these academics possess the necessary basic skills to use these resources. However, the majority of academics do not have high levels of confidence in using specific electronic legal resources. This study concluded that, despite the library's provision of user training sessions for academics, training does not focus on legal electronic resources. The variety of responses revealed the diverse training needs of law academics. The study recommended that training needs analysis be conducted by subject librarians who would conduct specialised legal electronic training. Information Sscience M.Inf.

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Mawindo, Diana Mphatso. "Evaluation of students' use of print and electronic resources at the University of Malawi College of Medicine." Thesis, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/3729.

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The proliferation ofinformation available in electronic format has been perpetuated by rapid technological advances. Users have a choice between print and electronic resources. At the same time, the use of these resources is determined by what is available to the users and what the users prefer. Problems that users encounter when accessing these resources determine the use of print and electronic resources. The current study evaluated the use of, and preference for, print and electronic resources by students at the University of Malawi College of Medicine. The study population comprised 179 undergraduate students. A self-administered questionnaire was used to establish the students' use of, and preference for, print and electronic resources, reasons for their preferences and the problems they encountered in accessing print and electronic resources. An interview schedule was used to elicit background information from the College Librarian on issues of budgeting, technological infrastructure, licensing and copyright agreements, archiving and library staff and training. Questionnaire results were quantitatively analysed and presented in terms of frequency tables and graphs. Interview results were analysed qualitatively. The study findings show that the students used both print and electronic resources. However, print resources were more heavily used than electronic ones. The students also preferred print resources to electronic. A lack of sufficient computers and low levels of computer and information literacy contributed to the underutilisation of electronic resources. Recommendations in terms of technological infrastructure, user training, staff training, user support and archiving were made based on the findings of the study. Thesis (M.I.S.)-University of KwaZulu- Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2005.

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Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Online bibliographic searching'

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