This article, the first in a series on administrative uses of microcomputers, describes steps to follow in selecting a microcomputer system, methods for resolving concerns facing beginning computer users, and ways to identify tasks suitable for computer processing. (PGD)

This discussion of increased computer usage at Santa Clara University focuses on results of a questionnaire sent to faculty and staff to determine personal computer usage. Attitudes towards support and training, electronic communications, and information sharing are discussed, and the establishment of the Personal Computer Center is described.…

The distributed data processing system at an Indiana school district can be expanded without causing degradation in response time. Microcomputers are used for daily data entries, and to initiate data inquiries to the mainframe and to communicate with each other. (MLF)

This article, the third in a series, provides a list of criteria to be used in evaluating administrative software. Some general guidelines are provided, followed by 30 questions that should be asked concerning documentation, input, processing, output, and other areas. (DCS)

This seven-chapter publication was designed to assist administrators, architects, and engineers in understanding the functions of microprocessor-based energy management systems. The information provided can be used by these individuals to develop an energy management project, select the proper system, and accurately install the system to fit…

Dicusses Modesto City (California) Schools' successful planning process for integrating a computer education program into the curriculum. Planning focused on six basic questions the district asks about any curriculum area reviewed. Generic skills needed for decision-making and other academic and occupational pursuits were targeted. (MLH)

Describes one previously "computer illiterate" teacher's experiences in taking a beginning course in computer programming and notes the teacher's resulting sense of achievement, growth in self-confidence, and ability to use the computer to tailor educational computer programs to individual student needs. (PGD)

Some computer education goals, such as computer-assisted instruction, are very expensive and difficult to meet. Programing, computer literacy, and word processing are less expensive computer education areas, and programs are easier to implement. (PGD)

A mechanism for using personal computer spreadsheet software to generate unique laboratory and problem assignments in optics for each student and provide corresponding solutions that can be checked quickly is described. The method minimizes some students' tendency to inspect others' solutions without solving problems themselves. Another…

A newsletter addresses the issues school administrators should consider in planning and implementing the use of microcomputers in their schools. Described are ways in which microcomputers will change management, the variety of ways computers can be used in educational administration, classroom activities using computer-based instruction, criteria…

Microcomputer software for use in managing child care centers is described in this shopping guide. Software for working with words, numbers, records, and money is recommended along with four utility programs that can be of value to a child care director. (BB)

The concerns of how personal computers can be used to increase the overall effectiveness of education are addressed. Topics discussed include: availability; teacher use; word processing; calculators; class use; computer-assisted-instruction; and simulations. Thorough faculty inservice on computer enhanced education is suggested before implementing…

A general description of microcomputer-based spreadsheet software capabilities and their usefulness in library management analysis and planning are presented. Five specific spreadsheet models which apply to retrospective conversion cost and scheduling, COM and book catalog costs, and acquistions processing costs are discussed and displayed in…

Schools can make the best use of their microcomputer resources if they (1) use the computers constantly, (2) encourage teachers to use the computers as tools, (3) use a variety of appropriate software for each grade level and subject, and (4) ensure that teachers have access to equipment experts. (PGD)

An overview of the uses of microcomputers in special education management is provided. Following a list of nine applications of microcomputers to educational management is a brief description of microcomputers currently used in education. A listing of five firms currently marketing special education management software includes information of…