The objective of this study was to evaluate the HealthInsite topic query technique, which uses a dynamic database search to assign resources to a topic. It is an alternative to the explicit classification technique, which relies on the classification of each resource using a predefined classification scheme. We performed a recall-precision analysis on all topics within the broad topic area of Child Health. Recall and precision errors were checked to determine which part of the information retrieval process was at fault. We then compared the topic query technique with the explicit classification technique. The results show errors or problems at every stage of the information retrieval process. This has initiated a review of all the tools used in the process, from indexing guidelines to the search engine. While many errors could be corrected, there were still features of the explicit classification technique that could not be achieved by the topic query technique. In conclusion, the topic query technique has the advantage of flexibility, but close co-operation between the different information retrieval specialists is needed to get the best results. The HealthInsite topic navigation structure should be regarded as an organized set of predefined searches rather than a full classified listing.
Practitioners in child mental settings are often faced with complex demands when asked to assess multi-problem families; all the more so when their conclusions and recommendations are likely to have a major impact on subsequent decisions in court. Over time, the authors have developed a model of assessment which effectively encapsulates the demand for comprehensiveness, relevance and fairness, incorporates a rich variety of individual and systemic approaches, leads to a high attendance and completion rate, and goes some way to addressing current post-modernist challenges. While the model is closely calibrated to our own skills and beliefs, we are confident that the design easily allows for adaptation by other teams faced with similar demands.
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