New "supermicros," extremely powerful microcomputers, may take the place of minicomputers in college administration. The differences between the two types of computers are explained and suggestions are offered for what and when to buy. (MLF)

Considers pros and cons of using personal computers or microcomputers in a library and information setting. Highlights include discussions about the physical environment, security, effects on users, costs in terms of time and money, micro-mainframe links, and standardization considerations. (Author/LRW)

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)

Schools can reallocate obsolete computers to an appropriate use rather than selling them. Districts have upgraded their microcomputers, shifted them down to primary grades, and used them in school libraries. (MLF)

Microcomputer efficiency and software economy can be achieved through file transfer and data sharing. Costs can be reduced by purchasing computer systems that allow for expansion and portability of data. (MLF)

This checklist provides guidance on how to measure adequacy of control and security of computer systems, identifies areas of risk, raises management and user awareness of their stewardship responsibilities, and reviews issues relative to system documentation, maintenance, integrity, and reliability. (MBR)

In response to concerns about the cost of keeping up with individual desktop computing technology, several new solutions have emerged. Referred to as "thin clients," or network-centric computers, they include two types of desktop device: the network computer and the Windows terminal. Purchase cost, life span, support costs, and overall total cost…

To keep expensive computer software and hardware functioning requires good housekeeping, some protective equipment, ground rules, and supervision. Schools can arrange microcomputer maintenance through service agreements with computer manufacturers, pay-as-you-go service from local computer stores, or setting up their own maintenance and repair…

Teachers need to become comfortable with computers and to find out how to use computers in their teaching. Tips for training teachers include developing an inservice training corps, hiring teachers with computer expertise for peer instruction, and utilizing free services and materials. (MLF)

School systems will soon be using microcomputers to design their school bus routes and aid in the management of transportation programs. Offers guidelines to bring microcomputer bus management to school systems. (MLF)

Describes and compares three versions of the ERIC database that are available on optical data disks: (1) DIALOG OnDisc ERIC; (2) OCLC Search CD450; and (3) SilverPlatter ERIC. The database contents, software and search commands, hardware requirements, notable features, and costs of each version are discussed. (CLB)

A Vermont high school has developed a series of graduate-level inservice courses to introduce teachers to computers in a systematic, cost-effective way. Course offerings include software evaluation, computer literacy, educational uses of the computer, LOGO, and BASIC. (TE)

Using personal computer spreadsheet software, standard corporate financial analysis can help university research administrators communicate the value of research and development to sponsors and other stakeholders; balance projects, technologies, or categories of research; and continually assess the value of investing in ongoing projects. It also…

Discussion of local area networks (LAN) includes use in elementary and secondary education and in higher education. Topics addressed include cost of software, instructional advantages, administrative considerations, effective use of computer labs, and computing capacity of microcomputer workstations. A list of LAN vendors and their products is…

The first of two articles describes the development of a protocol for interlibrary loan communications by the National Library of Canada, and discusses the benefits derived from standards that allow libraries using different communications equipment to exchange messages. The second discusses the impact of the standardized protocol on…