There is a need for abstracting topography other than for mapping purposes. The method employed should be simple and available to non-specialists, thereby ruling out spline representations. Generalizing from univariate first-degree least squares and from multiple regression, this article introduces bivariate polynomial functions fitted by least…

Described is the use of a microcomputer and computer software to simulate the use of geological equipment. The technique uses pictures of the control panel (with switches and dials that can be activated) and a story board that can provide the simulation. A simple seismograph is used as an example of possible simulations. (RH)

Describes a learning activity when students construct a model of a buried valley by using computer assistance. Explanation of the problem includes mathematical models and illustrations. (MA)

Describes a computer assisted program designed to aid students in detailed description/identification of igneous rocks. (SL)

THE FOLLOWING IS THE FULL TEXT OF THIS DOCUMENT (Except for the Evaluation Summary Table): VERSION: 1.4E. PRODUCER: Earthware Computer Services, P.O. Box 30039, Eugene, OR 07403. EVALUATION COMPLETED: June 1982 by staff of NWREL and constituents of the Alaska Department of Education. COST: $49.50. ABILITY LEVEL: Secondary and College. SUBJECT:…

Outlines the advantages and disadvantages of using electronic spreadsheets for grade keeping. Offers suggestions for selecting a computer and software programs. Provides examples of spreadsheet printouts. (ML)

Describes a FORTRAN IV program written to supplement a laboratory exercise dealing with quantitative x-ray diffraction analysis of mixtures of polycrystalline phases in an introductory course in x-ray diffraction. Gives an example of the use of the program and compares calculated and observed calibration data. (Author/GS)

The author has rewritten rules for CIPW norm calculation and has written FORTRAN IV programs to assist the student in this procedure. Includes a set of problems utilizing the CIPW norm to illustrate principles of chemical petrology. (MA)

Presents a computer game which assists in learning the classification of igneous rocks and a simulation program which illustrates some aspects of igneous textures. (SL)

Described is a computer simulation that was used to help general education students enrolled in a large introductory geology course. The purpose of the simulation is to learn to interpret incomplete data. Students design a plan to collect bathymetric data for an area of the ocean. Procedures used by the students and instructor are included.…

Described is a computer program used to calculate d-spacings (corrected for film shrinkage) and a weighting factor for measurements made on a Debye-Scherrer film. Two purposes are listed for the computer program: time reduction and increase of computer competance. (Author/DS)

Described is a mineral identification program which uses a shell system for creating expert systems of a classification nature. Discusses identification of minerals in hand specimens, thin sections, and polished sections of rocks. (Author/CW)

Describes a package of computer programs developed to implement an oil exploration game that gives undergraduate students practical experience in applying theoretical principles of petroleum geology. The programs facilitate management of the game by the instructor and enhance the learning experience. (Author/MBR)

Provides list of mineralogy, petrology, and geochemistry computer programs. Each entry includes a brief description, program name and language, availability of program listing, and source and/or reference. (JN)

Discusses the need to take into account the effects of arrested fractional crystallization in the petrographic classification of volcanic rocks containing plagioclase phenocrysts. Describes the development and use of a computer program to accomplish this task graphically. (TW)