Downloads & Free Reading Options - Results

A study was conducted for the purpose of clarifying decision alternatives concerning computer-assisted instruction (CAI) in the Merrill Library at Utah State University. The main research questions were: (1) To what extent is the CAI system in use at present? (2) What factors have encouraged or hindered CAI usage? (3) How do people feel about the system? (4) What alternative approaches are available and how feasible are they? To obtain answers to these questions a series of four questionnaires were used to poll students, library staff, faculty users, and prospective users. With the exception of a portion of the library staff, feelings expressed about the CAI system were generally positive. Negative feelings encountered were due to mechanical difficulties. The interview sessions are summarized; the results of a cost-effectiveness study are presented; and recommendations are made for future CAI use at Merrill Library. It is concluded that the CAI system appears to have considerable support from users and is in a position--through anticipated expansion of terminal usage--to demonstrate a level of operation that is more cost-efficient than has previously been the case. A simplified glossary for CAI, a brief bibliography, and the questionnaires used in the study conclude the report. (Author/KKC)

1Boy Crusoe

By Allan Eric

Also published as" A Yankee Crusoe" . A 15 year old hard working and studious farm boy finds the lure of adventure on the seas as a merchant seaman more than he can resist. This is his story. " I was born in a little town in the State of Maine, near the close of the Civil War. My boyhood life did not differ materially from that of the average farmer's son in the remote country districts of New England--except, perhaps, that I read more and thought more. Hard work on the rugged soil, two terms each year in the little yellow country schoolhouse, a day's fishing now and then filled the early years of my life full to over-flowing. " What he gets is enough excitement and adventure to overflow his wildest dreams. How he experiences disaster and uses his wits and knowledge to overcome every problem makes for a great read. - Summary by Phil Chenevert