A PARENT'S GUIDE:
ACCESSING THE ERIC RESOURCE COLLECTION

#PA6, Revised edition, August 1996
_________________________________

A publication of....

NICHCY
National Information Center for Children and Youth with
Disabilities
P.O. Box 1492
Washington, DC 20013
1-800-695-0285 (Voice/TT)
(202) 884-8200 (Voice/TT)
E-mail: nichcy@aed.org
URL: http://www.nichcy.org

This information is copyright free, unless otherwise indicated. Readers are
encouraged to copy and share it, but please credit the National Information
Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities (NICHCY).
___________________________________________________________

What is ERIC?

ERIC, The Educational Resources Information Center, is the information
system sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education. ERIC is set up to
serve teachers, parents, school board members, librarians, professors, and
everyone else concerned about education. It is composed of 16
clearinghouses, 9 adjunct clearinghouses, and 3 support units. The
clearinghouses gather, select, abstract, and index documents and articles
on a wide range of educational topics. Documents include pamphlets,
booklets, research reports, curricula, instructional materials, and
conference papers. The articles come from more than 1,000 different
journals and magazines.

ERIC also refers to the bibliographic database where descriptions of these
documents and articles-- more than 850,000 of them--are maintained. The
documents and articles are also abstracted and indexed in two monthly
publications--Resources in Education (RIE) for documents, and the Current
Index to Journals in Education (CIJE) for journal articles. Most libraries
have the RIE and CIJE.

Why use the ERIC system?

You can turn to the ERIC database for almost any question you might have
about the education of your child. This observation is especially true if
your child has a disability. It is difficult to be a well-informed parent,
but it is certainly much easier when you know how to use such valuable
information resources as those available through ERIC. ERIC is a rich
source of information, and more and more families are learning to use the
collection. They have found that learning to use the ERIC system is
certainly worth the effort.

How do I get started using ERIC?

Go to your local library or to a nearby university library and talk to the
reference librarian. You can request a short lesson on how to use ERIC,
including how to use RIE and CIJE to identify articles and documents of
interest to you. (If your library does not have RIE or CIJE, ask the
librarian where these can be found in your area.) Also available is the
Thesaurus of ERIC Descriptors that lists the subject headings used in
cataloging articles and documents.

Another valuable resource for learning about ERIC is the ERIC support unit,
ACCESS ERIC, which helps new clients use ERIC resources. The ACCESS ERIC
staff can help orient you to the system, answer your questions about ERIC
services, refer you to sources of specific information, and provide
publications produced by the system on a variety of topics. ACCESS ERIC
also maintains a number of database files available on-line to the public.
Call ACCESS ERIC toll-free at 800-LET-ERIC(800-538-3742).

Can I use a computer to access the ERIC database?

Yes. In fact, one of the most important features of the ERIC database is
that it is computerized. This means that the descriptions of ERIC documents
and articles are available not only in print form (RIE and CIJE), but also
in an electronic database that can be searched from anywhere in the world
using a personal computer (PC) equipped with a modem. Most libraries offer
computer searches of the ERIC database, but anyone who has access to a PC
and modem can search the ERIC database with a minimal amount of training.

The ERIC database is also available on compact disc. Searching the ERIC
database on CD-ROM is an excellent way to become familiar with both the
content of the ERIC database and the art of computer searching. Most
libraries now have personal computers equipped to handle compact discs, and
many libraries will help you learn to use this technology yourself, so that
you can become your own information provider. Searching ERIC on CD-ROM may
be an excellent resource for parents and/or disability organizations,
allowing users to find what they want and print it out right away.

And, if you have a personal computer, a modem, and access to the Internet
electronic network, you can search ERIC yourself. For a list of public
Internet access points to the ERIC database and step-by-step login
directions, send an e-mail message to ericdb@aspensys.com.

If you have access to the Internet, you can also take advantage of the
AskERIC service. AskERIC is an electronic question-answering service for
parents, teachers, students, or anyone with a question on education.
AskERIC information specialists and staff of the ERIC Clearinghouses
provide a research-based response to these queries, usually within 48
hours.

To use the AskERIC service, simply send your e-mail inquiry (via the
Internet) to: askeric@ericir.syr.edu

Some commercial network services offer electronic access to ERIC
information. For example, if you currently subscribe to an electronic
service such as America Online or CompuServe, you can access ERIC. If you
are not sure how to reach ERIC electronically, or if you are not sure your
service connects to ERIC, call ACCESS ERIC, toll-free, at 1-800-LET-ERIC
(1-800-538-3742).

How do I obtain articles or documents I've identified through ERIC?

A unique feature of the ERIC system is that, once you have identified a
document you would like to read in full, you can usually find it in the
ERIC microfiche collection. Unlike most bibliographic databases, ERIC
provides microfiche copies of the documents you found abstracted and
indexed in Resources in Education. This means you can go to many major
libraries and most university libraries and find the document on
microfiche, read it on a microfiche reader, and even copy it and take it
home, if you like.

If your library does not have the ERIC microfiche collection, you can still
use ERIC. Copies of ERIC documents -- pamphlets, program reports,
instructional materials, and conference papers-- can be ordered directly
from the ERIC Document Reproduction Service (EDRS). The toll-free EDRS
ordering number is 1-800-443-3742. EDRS can give you price information for
paper copies and for microfiche. Postage is additional in both cases. You
will need to use a microfiche reader to read microfiche products, but your
local library should have such a reader. If it does not, or if you prefer
to read a paper copy, you can always request that EDRS send you the paper
version of the article or document of interest.

I'm looking for information about disabilities. Does it matter which ERIC
clearinghouse I contact?

While each of the 16 ERIC clearinghouses will try to answer your questions,
the ERIC Clearinghouse on Disabilities and Gifted Education (ERIC/EC) is
the clearinghouse to call or write when you have an education question
about children with disabilities. Located in Reston, Virginia, this
clearinghouse is operated by The Council for Exceptional Children, a
non-profit professional organization with a membership of more than 50,000
educators and policy makers concerned about the future of special
education.

Among the products and services provided by ERIC/EC are: references and
referrals; ERIC Digests (basic overviews on topics of interest to the broad
educational community); information packages on current topics; mini
searches (limited to 10 citations); computer search reprints (prepackaged
computer searches on important special education topics); and reports that
synthesize and analyze special education research and practice.

To contact ERIC /EC, call 1-800-328-0272, or write: ERIC Clearinghouse on
Disabilities and Gifted Education, 1920 Association Drive, Reston, Virginia
20191.

What do the other clearinghouses do?

Each of the clearinghouses has its own subject area(s) of specialization
and is responsible for gathering, selecting, and abstracting the articles
and documents in that subject area to be added to the ERIC database. Staff
at the clearinghouses can also answer questions about the ERIC system from
anyone who calls, writes, or visits them. If you would like to visit one of
the clearinghouses, it is best to call in advance to make an appointment.

To help you pursue using the ERIC system, we have listed the names,
addresses, and telephone numbers of the 16 clearinghouses, along with a
brief description of each clearinghouse's area(s) of emphasis.

We hope that you will take advantage of the rich resource of ERIC. It can
be a powerful tool for gathering information about the education of your
child and other related matters. For more information about any topic
discussed in this guide, including how to order copies of documents from
EDRS, contact ACCESS ERIC or any of the ERIC clearinghouses.
_____________________________________________________

The ERIC Clearinghouses have responsibility for acquiring the significant
educational literature within their particular areas, selecting the highest
quality and most relevant material, processing (i.e., cataloging, indexing,
abstracting) the selected items for input to the database, and also for
providing information analysis products and various user services based on
the database. The exact number of Clearinghouses has fluctuated over time
in response to the shifting needs of the educational community. There are
currently 16 Clearinghouses. These are listed below, together with full
addresses, telephone numbers, and brief scope notes describing the areas
they cover.

Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC)
U.S. Department of Education
National Library of Education
Office of Educational Research and Improvement (OERI)
555 New Jersey Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20208-5720
Telephone: (202) 219-2221
E-mail: eric@inet.ed.gov
URL: http://www.ed.gov

Adult, Career, and Vocational Education
The Ohio State University
1900 Kenny Road
Columbus, OH 43210-1090
Telephone: (800) 848-4815; (614) 292-4353
Fax: (614) 292-1260
E-mail: ericacve@magnus.acs.ohio-state.edu
URL: http://www.osu.edu/units/education/cete/ericacve/index.html

All levels of adult and continuing education from basic literacy training
through professional skill upgrading. Career education and career
development programs for all ages and populations in educational,
institutional, business, and industry settings. Vocational and technical
education covering all service occupations for secondary, postsecondary,
and adult populations.

Assessment and Evaluation
The Catholic University of America
210 O'Boyle Hall
Washington, DC 20064-4035
Telephone: (800) GO4-ERIC; (202) 673-3811
Fax: (202) 319-6692
E-mail: eric_ae@cua.edu
Gopher: gopher.cua.edu, Special Resources
URL: http://www.cua.edu/www/eric_ae

All aspects of tests and other measurement devices. The design and
methodology of research, measurement and evaluation. The evaluation of
programs and projects. The application of tests, measurement, and
evaluation devices/instrumentation in educational projects and programs.

Community Colleges
University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA)
3051 Moore Hall
Los Angeles, CA 90095-1521
Telephone: (800) 832-8256; (310) 825-3931
Fax: (310) 206-8095
E-mail: ericcc@ucla.edu
URL: http://www.gseis.ucla.edu/ERIC/eric.html

Development, administration, and evaluation of two-year public and private
community and junior colleges, technical institutes, and two-year branch
university campuses. Two-year college students, faculty, staff, curricula,
programs, support services, libraries, and community services. Linkages
between two-year colleges and business/industrial/community organizations.
Articulation of two-year colleges with secondary and four-year
postsecondary institutions.

Counseling and Student Services
School of Education
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
1000 Spring Garden Street
Greensboro, NC 27412-5001
Telephone: (800) 414-9769; (910) 334-4114
Fax: (910) 334-4116
E-mail: ericcass@iris.uncg.edu
URL: http://www.uncg.edu/~ericcas2

Preparation, practice, and supervision of counselors, psychologists, social
workers and student development specialists at all educational levels and
in all settings. Theoretical development of counseling and guidance,
including the nature of relevant human characteristics. Use and results of
personnel practices and procedures. Group process (counseling, therapy,
dynamics) and case work.

Disabilities and Gifted Education
The Council for Exceptional Children
1920 Association Drive
Reston, VA 20191-1589
Telephone: (800) 328-0272; (703) 264-9474
TTY: (703) 264-9449
Fax: (703) 620-2521
E-mail: ericec@cec.sped.org
URL: http://www.cec.sped.org/ericec.htm

All aspects of the education and development of persons (of all ages) who
have disabilities or who are gifted, including delivery of
education-related services. Includes prevention, identification and
assessment, intervention, and enrichment for these groups, in both regular
and special education settings.

Educational Management
5207 University of Oregon
1787 Agate Street
Eugene, OR 97403-5207
Telephone: (800) 438-8841; (541) 346-1684
Fax: (541) 346-2334
E-mail: ppiele@oregon.uoregon.edu
URL: http://darkwing.uoregon.edu/~ericcem/home.html

All aspects of the governance, leadership, administration, and structure of
public and private educational organizations at the elementary and
secondary levels, including the provision of physical facilities for their
operation.

Elementary and Early Childhood Education
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
805 West Pennsylvania Avenue
Urbana, IL 61801-4897
Telephone: (800) 583-4135; (217) 333-1386
Fax: (217) 333-3767
E-mail: ericeece@uiuc.edu
Gopher: ericps.ed.uiuc.edu
URL for ERIC/PS: http://ericps.ed.uiuc.edu/ericeece.html
URL for National Parent Information Network:
http://ericps.ed.uiuc.edu/npin/npinhome.html

All aspects of the physical, cognitive, social, emotional, educational and
cultural development of children, from birth through early adolescence.
Among the topics covered are: prenatal and infant development and care;
parent education, parenting, and family relationships; home and school
relationships; learning theory research and practice related to childrenÕs
development; preparation of early childhood teachers and caregivers; and
educational programs and community services for children.

Higher Education
The George Washington University
One Dupont Circle, N.W., Suite 630
Washington, DC 20036-1183
Telephone: (800) 773-3742; (202) 296-2597
Fax: (202) 452-1844
E-mail: eriche@inet.ed.gov

All aspects of the conditions, programs, and problems at colleges and
universities providing higher education (i.e., four-year degrees and
beyond). This includes: student, faculty and administration issues;
academic issues; governance and management; planning; finance;
interinstitutional arrangements; business or industry programs leading to a
degree; institutional research at the college/university level; Federal
programs; legal issues and legislation; professional education (e.g.,
medicine, law, etc.) and professional continuing education.

Information and Technology
Syracuse University
4-194 Center for Science & Technology
Syracuse, NY 13244-4100
Telephone: (800) 464-9107; (315) 443-3640
Fax: (315) 443-5448
E-mail: eric@ericir.syr.edu;askeric@ericir.syr.edu
Gopher: ericir.syr.edu
URL for AskERIC: http://ericir.syr.edu
URL for ERIC/IT: http://ericir.syr.edu/ithome

Educational technology (with emphasis on instructional design, development,
and evaluation) and library/information science at all academic levels and
with all populations, including the preparation of professionals. The media
and devices of educational communications: computers and microcomputers,
computer networks, telecommunications (cable, broadcast satellite,
Internet), audio and video recordings, film and other audiovisual
materials, as they pertain to teaching and learning (in both conventional
and distance education settings). The operation and management of libraries
and information services for education-related organizations, including
acquisition and organization of materials, automation, access, censorship,
and information storage, retrieval and use. All aspects of information
management and information technology related to education.

Languages and Linguistics
Center for Applied Linguistics
1118 22nd Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20037-0037
Telephone: (800) 276-9834; (202) 429-9292
Fax: (202) 659-5641
E-mail: eric@cal.org
URL: http://ericir.syr.edu/ericcll

Languages and language sciences. All aspects of second language instruction
and learning in all commonly and less commonly taught languages, including
English as a second language and signed languages. Native language learning
and instruction in all languages other than English. Bilingualism and
bilingual education. Cultural education in the context of second language
learning, including intercultural communication, study abroad, and
international educational exchange. All areas of linguistics, including
theoretical and applied linguistics, sociolinguistics, and
psycholinguistics.

Reading, English, and Communication
Indiana University
Smith Research Center
2805 East 10th Street, Suite 150
Bloomington, IN 47408-2698
Telephone: (800) 759-4723; (812) 855-5847
Fax: (812) 855-4220
E-mail: ericcs@indiana.edu
Gopher: gopher.indiana.edu
URL: http://www.indiana.edu/~eric_rec

Reading and writing, English (as a first language), and communication
skills (verbal and nonverbal), kindergarten through college. Includes
family or intergenerational literacy, i.e., adults working with their
children. Research and instructional development in reading, writing,
speaking, and listening. Identification , diagnosis, and remediation of
reading problems. Speech communication (including forensics), mass
communication (including journalism), interpersonal and small group
interaction, oral interpretation, rhetorical and communication theory, and
theater/drama. Includes all aspects of reading behavior, with emphasis on:
(1) psychology, sociology, and physiology; (2) instructional materials,
curricula, teaching methodology, and tests/measurement; and (3) the role of
libraries and other agencies in fostering and guiding reading. Preparation
of instructional staff and related personnel in all the above areas.

Rural Education and Small Schools
Appalachia Educational Laboratory
1031 Quarrier Street
P.O. Box 1348
Charleston, WV 25325-1348
Telephone: (800) 624-9120; (304) 347-0400
TTY: (304) 347-0401
Fax: (304) 347-0487
E-mail: lanhamb@ael.org
URL: http://www.ael.org/erichp.htm

Curriculum and instructional programs, methods, and materials that address
the education of students in rural schools or districts, small schools
wherever located, and schools or districts wherever located that serve
American Indian and Alaska Natives (including other native or aboriginal
populations worldwide), Mexican Americans, and migrants, or that have
programs related to outdoor education. Research and evaluation about
students schools, and districts within such groups or served by such
programs. Also includes cultural, ethnic, linguistic, economic, and social
conditions that affect rural education, small schools, American Indians and
Alaska Natives, Mexican Americans, migrants, and outdoor education.
Preparation programs, including related services, that train professionals
to work in such contexts.

Science, Mathematics, & Environmental Education
The Ohio State University
1929 Kenny Road
Columbus, OH 43210-1080
Telephone: (800) 276-0462; (614) 292-6717
Fax: (614) 292-0263
E-mail: ericse@osu.edu
Gopher: gopher.ericse.ohio-state.edu
URL: http://www.ericse.org

Science, mathematics, engineering/technology and environmental education at
all levels. The following topics when focused on any of the above broad
scope areas: applications of learning theory; curriculum and instructional
materials; teachers and teacher education; educational programs and
projects; research and evaluative studies; applications of educational
technology and media.

Social Studies/Social Science Education
Indiana University
Social Studies Development Center
2805 East 10th Street, Suite 120
Bloomington, IN 47408-2698
Telephone: (800) 266-3815; (812) 855-3838
Fax: (812) 855-0455
E-mail: ericso@indiana.edu
URL: http://www.indiana.edu/~ssdc/eric-chess.html

All aspects of Social Studies and Social Science Education, including
values education (and the social aspects of environmental education and sex
education), international education, comparative education, and
cross-cultural studies in all subject areas (K-12). Ethnic heritage, gender
equity, aging, and social bias/discrimination topics. Also covered are
music, art, and architecture as related to the fine arts.

Teaching and Teacher Education
American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education
One Dupont Circle, N.W., Suite 610
Washington, DC 20036-1186
Telephone: (800) 822-9229; (202) 293-2450
Fax: (202) 457-8095
E-mail: ericsp@inet.ed.gov
URL: http://www.ericsp.org

School personnel at all levels. Teacher recruitment, selection, licensing,
certification, training, preservice and inservice preparation, retention
and retirement. The theory, philosophy, and practice of teaching.
Organization, administration, finance, and legal issues relating to teacher
education programs and institutions. All aspects of health, physical,
recreation, and dance education.

Urban Education
Teachers College, Columbia University
Institute for Urban and Minority Education
Main Hall, Room 303, Box 40
New York, NY 10027-6696
Telephone: (800) 601-4868; (212) 678-3433
Fax: (212) 678-4012
E-mail: eric-cue@columbia.edu
URL: http://eric-web.tc.columbia.edu/

The educational characteristics and experiences of the diverse racial,
ethnic, social class, and linguistic, populations in urban (and suburban)
schools in the United States (and other countries). Curriculum and
instruction of students from these populations, organization of the
classrooms and schools in which they predominate, and special programs and
services. The relationship of urban schools to their communities, with
emphasis on the ways that national and local institutions can collaborate
with schools to enhance education, and the positive development of urban
and minority youth. The social and economic conditions that affect the
education of urban populations, with particular attention to factors that
can place urban students at risk educationally, and ways that public and
private sector policies can improve these conditions.

Support Components

ACCESS ERIC
1600 Research Boulevard, 5F
Rockville, MD 20850-3172
Telephone: (800) LET-ERIC; (301) 251-5789
Fax: (301) 309-2084
E-mail: acceric@inet.ed.gov
Gopher: aspensys.com, Education and Training Division
URL: http://www.aspensys.com/eric

ERIC Document Reproduction Service (EDRS)
7420 Fullerton Road, Suite 110
Springfield, VA 22153-2852
Telephone: (800) 443-ERIC; (703) 440-1400
Fax: (703) 440-1408
E-mail: edrs@inet.ed.gov
Gopher: edrs.com
URL: http://edrs.com

ERIC Processing & Reference Facility
Computer Sciences Corporation
1100 West Street, 2nd Floor
Laurel, MD 20707-3598
Telephone: (800) 799-ERIC; (301) 497-4080
Fax: (301) 953-0263
E-mail: ericfac @inet.ed.gov
URL: http://ericfac.piccard.csc.com

________________________________________

RESOURCES

Smarte, L. (1994). "All about ERIC." Washington, DC: Central ERIC. (This
38-page book is available from ACCESS ERIC at the address listed on page
7.)

Smarte, L., & McLane, K. (1994). "How to find answers to your special
education questions" (2nd ed.). Reston, VA: ERIC/EC. (This 70-page book is
available for $10 from the ERIC Clearinghouse on Disabilities and Gifted
Education, at the address listed on page 5. Ask for Publication #R637R.)

_______________________________________

NICHCY thanks the following people for their contributions to the original
edition of this Parent's Guide:
Craig B. Howley, ERIC/RC
Judy Conrad, ERIC/HE

For her care in revising the Parent's Guide and for making possible this
newest edition, NICHCY especially thanks: Bernadette Knoblauch, ERIC/EC
Parent Guide is published once a year. In addition, NICHCY disseminates
other materials and can respond to individual requests for information. All
services and publications are free. For further information and assistance,
or to receive a NICHCY Publications Catalog, contact NICHCY, P.O. Box 1492,
Washington, DC 20013. Telephone: 1-800-695-0285 (Voice/TT) and (202)
884-8200 (Voice/TT).

NICHCY thanks our Project Officer, Marie Roane, at the Office of Special
Education Programs, U.S. Department of Education..

Project Staff

Project Director: Suzanne Ripley
Editor: Lisa Kupper
Associate Editor: Mary Kate Conroy

This information is copyright free, unless otherwise indicated. Readers are
encouraged to copy and share it, but please credit the National Information
Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities (NICHCY). Please share your
ideas and feedback with our staff by writing to the Editor.

______________________

This document was developed by the Academy for Educational Development
(AED) under Cooperative Agreement #H030A30003 with the Office of Special
Education Programs, U.S. Department of Education. The contents of this
document do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Department
of Education, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products, or
organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.

The Academy for Educational Development, founded in 1961, is an
independent, nonprofit service organization committed to addressing human
development needs in the United States and throughout the world. In
partnership with its clients, the Academy seeks to meet today's social,
economic, and environmental challenges through education and human resource
development; to apply state-of-the-art education, training, research,
technology, management, behavioral analysis, and social marketing
techniques to solve problems; and to improve knowledge and skills
throughout the world as the most effective means for stimulating growth,
reducing poverty, and promoting democratic and humanitarian ideals.

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