Professional development, a continuing process of activities that enhance professional growth, should be planned and managed by the individual. Although part-time adult educators may be able to consult with supervisors in planning professional development, more often they work in relative isolation and must take sole responsibility for their…

This information digest discusses current issues in the management of software collections and outlines several possible options for the cataloging and processing of microcomputer software and courseware. A statement of the problem indicates that treatment of microcomputer software is highly dependent on the type of library, size of the…

This digest offers principles of performance assessment as an alternative to norm-referenced tests. The definition of performance assessment developed by the U.S. Congress's Office of Technology and Assessment is given, common features are listed, and the terms "performance" and "authentic" are defined. Suggested guidelines for…

This Digest points out characteristics of quality computer software for children, describes different kinds of software, and suggests ways to get software for preview. The need to consider the purpose for which the software is to be used and the degree to which the software meets its stated goals is noted. Desirable software characteristics and…

Focusing on how teachers can integrate computers into reading/writing instruction, this ERIC digest presents guidelines for helping language arts teachers match their use of computers with what is known about the reading/writing process. The guidelines for computers and reading presented in the digest point out that computer instruction in reading…

Information concerning methods and available materials for conserving energy is needed by small, rural schools to offset continued increasing energy costs and lack of financial support and technical assistance. The first step in developing an energy conservation policy is to obtain school board commitment and to establish an energy saving policy.…

This digest notes that the terms and conditions of computer software package license agreements control the use of software in schools and libraries, and examines the implications of computer software license agreements for classroom use and for library lending policies. Guidelines are provided for interpreting the Copyright Act, and insuring the…

A well-planned class camping trip is a learning adventure which develops personal values, generates lifelong learning skills, encourages group cooperation, and enhances knowledge of and appreciation for natural environments. This digest is a guide to help teachers offer this unique learning opportunity to their students. Separate sections present…

Much of the concern among librarians and educators as to the legality of library lending and classroom use of copyrighted videotapes is the result of "Home Use Only" labeling and other information supplied by the Motion Picture Association of America and some of its members. Much of this labeling and information is misleading and…

This digest begins with a brief discussion of the current status of the relatively recent phenomenon of online searching in schools. The advantages and disadvantages of online access in this context are then outlined, and some suggestions are offered for school library media specialists who wish to initiate online information retrieval for their…

"Information Power: Guidelines for School Library Media Programs," which was published jointly by the American Library Association (ALA) and the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT) in 1988, is the most recent in a series of efforts to articulate and encode professional program and practice standards that have…

Assessment can play a vital role in ensuring the success of citizenship education. Assessment should be an on-going process that informs about the progress and development of students. Guidelines are presented for designing and planning assessment activities, and several formats for assessment are described. Basic guidelines for assessment are…