UKOLN invites proposals for a further eLib supporting study.
This study results from recommendations made at the first MODELS workshop.
Further information about MODELS is available from:
<http://ukoln.ac.uk/models/>
Abstract coverage study
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The availability and quality of article abstracts in abstracting and
indexing (A&I) and table of contents (TOC) services varies considerably.
Full abstracts are expensive to create, as the procedure is manual.
It is recognised however that high-quality abstracts are a key aid in the
resource discovery and access process. They are clearly particularly
useful when a subject search returns details of a number of potentially
relevant articles and it is necessary to select the most appropriate. This
is especially important in document supply services: if users are able to
browse journal issues on the shelves before borrowing/copying an article
the problem is not so acute, but where payment is required before seeing
an article, there is a need for more extensive, high quality metadata.
Abstracts can also be useful in determining the quality of resources,
especially when the user is not familiar with the author. Intermediaries
in particular will find this helpful.
In addition to supporting resource selection, abstracts can also be
helpful for searching datasets.
The study will:
* examine current practices in the provision of abstracts across a range
of services
* identify quality issues
* highlight implementation issues
* recommend how improvements could be taken forward
Funding
The total cost of the study is expected to be under 5,100 pounds,
including VAT if applicable.
Proposals should:
* outline methodologies, timescales and deliverables
* itemise resources required to carry out the study, with costs
* indicate skills and expertise of the applicant.
Evaluation
Proposals will be evaluated by referees; the following criteria will be
used for evaluation purposes:
* demonstration of understanding of the issues (including technical)
* demonstration of ability to carry out the work required by the required
deadline
* proposer's experience and track record in carrying out similar work
* sound methodology
* appropriate use of resources.
Publication
It is intended that the final reports should be printed/published in
conjunction with eLib/JISC. Reports should be delivered in an
appropriate electronic format, to be agreed with UKOLN. Proposers should
be prepared to assign publication rights (including electronic) for the
study to JISC, or its nominee.
Timescale
Proposals should be submitted by midday on Monday 21 April 1997. Four
hard copies of the proposal are required and should be sent to Rosemary
Russell at UKOLN at the address below.
The final report will be required no later than 31 July 1997.
Contact
Queries should be directed to Rosemary Russell at UKOLN.
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Rosemary Russell, UKOLN (UK Office for Library & Information
Networking), University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1225 826547; Fax: +44 (0)1225 826838
<URL: http://www.ukoln.ac.uk/~lisrr/>
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