Search results

Searchers need to develop a set of heuristics (a variety of problem solving tactics and operations) for searching full‐text databases. Those heuristics which have evolved for searching bibliographic databases are often not effective when applied to full‐text. Presented here are methods which can be helpful in increasing precision when searching full‐text journal files for items on a given topic at BRS. Mead Data Central and Dialog. All of the techniques are based on achieving some repetition of central concepts as expressed in natural language. Research in automatic indexing and in full‐text retrieval provides a theoretical justification for a heuristic of this type. Schematic representations of strategies and sample searches which represent application of the techniques on each of the three systems are provided.

With the continuing increases in computer processing and storage capabilities, the barriers to and benefits of electronic access to more information content are becoming serious issues in information science research. The experiments described in this article, which address the value of content‐enriched access, are important to continued progress in information retrieval. Well‐selected content components and full‐text materials in electronic systems must be linked with improved search methodologies, better computer interfaces, and greater understanding of the structure and use of knowledge. Content‐enriched records, augmented by these other developments, will enhance the probability of users identifying the information they require.