Why web pages annotation tools are not killer applications? A new approach to an old problem

The annotation of web pages, and the possibility to share the notes with others, seems to be a powerful tool. Although several tools already provide such possibility, they are not as widely popular as one would expect them to be. We try to explain this fact, and propose a novel architectural approach that is, in our view, particularly suited to some particular domain such as e-learning. We also present a tool that implements the proposed architecture

JavaScript: Bringing Object-Level Security to the Browser

JavaScript has evolved from a simple language intended to give web browsers basic hinteraction into a fully featured dynamic language that allows the browser to become an application delivery platform. With innovations such as asynchronous JavaScript and XML (AJAX) and JavaScript Object Notation (JSON), JavaScript has become the de facto standard for creating interactive web applications. With its new found power and popularity, JavaScript has been the target of many attacks. In this paper, we present a framework that allows programmers to define secure properties of JavaScript objects such that they are more immune to malicious activity and require a smaller footprint that existing solutions. We then use our framework and apply it to an already built JavaScript system to analyze its properties and effectiveness.unpublishednot peer reviewe

Improving Exploratory Search Interfaces: Adding Value or Information Overload?

One method for supporting more exploratory forms of search has been to include a compound of new interface features, such as facets, previews, collection points, synchronous communication, and note-taking spaces, within a single search interface. One side effect, however, is that some compounds can be confusing, rather than supportive during search. Faceted browsing, for example, conveys domain terminology and supports rich interaction, but can potentially present an abundance of information. In this paper we focus on the faceted example and conclude with our position that Cognitive Load Theory can be used to estimate and thus manage the potential complexities of adding new features to search interfaces

Symmetric Synchronous Collaborative Navigation

Synchronous collaborative navigation is a form of social navigation where users virtually share a web browser. In this paper, we present a symmetric, proxy-based architecture where each user can take the lead and guide others in visiting web sites, without the need for a special browser or other software. We show how we have applied this scheme to a problem-solving-oriented e-learning system

Student user preferences for features of next-generation OPACs: a case study of University of Sheffield international students

Purpose. The purpose of this study is to identity the features that international student users prefer for next generation OPACs. Design/ methodology/ approach. 16 international students of the University of Sheffield were interviewed in July 2008 to explore their preferences among potential features in next generation OPACs. A semi-structured interview schedule with images of mock-up screens was used. Findings. The results of the interviews were broadly consistent with previous studies. In general, students expect features in next generation OPACs should be save their time, easy to use and relevant to their search. This study found that recommender features and features that can provide better navigation of search results are desired by users. However, Web 2.0 features, such as RSS feeds and those features which involved user participation were among the most popular. Practical implications. This paper produces findings of relevance to any academic library seeking to implement a next-generation OPAC. Originality/value. There have been no previous published research studies of users’ preferences among possible features of next-generation OPACs