Companies have developed a dizzying array of new software tools designed to do everything from assessing and monitoring students' progress to supporting a blended-learning environment to supplying entire curricula, complete with online activities and homework assignments. Educators seem to have developed a taste for these new digital tools,…

Eight criteria for evaluating microcomputer software are discussed: ability to perform specified tasks, ease of operation, vendor stability, other users' reports, speed of operation, ease of configuration, support from supplier, and quality of documentation. Secondary criteria (e.g., adaptability, expansion potential, security, environment…

Three methods employed to price and sell computer equipment are discussed: computer pricing, hardware pricing, system pricing (system includes complete computer and support hardware system and relatively complete software package). Advantages of system pricing are detailed, the author's system is described, and 10 systems currently available are…

Discussion of the acquisition of small computer systems (microcomputers and software) by libraries for their own use covers the decision-making process, five options available for acquiring software, stand-alone microcomputer packages for library housekeeping, and national bibliographic control of computer software. Twenty-six references are…

A principal offers school administrators advice on computerizing their offices. Necessary characteristics of computer hardware and software are described. (MLF)

Eleven articles and documents selected from the ERIC indexes, "Resources in Education" and "Current Index to Journals in Education" for 1983 are listed in this bibliography. Emphasis is on criteria for selecting and purchasing educational software for microcomputers. Several articles cover software evaluation issues and…

Presented is a chart which compares the nature of the BASIC programing languages found with the following systems: Atari, Apple Integer, Applesoft, Exidy, TRS 80 Level I, TRS 80 Level II, TRS 80 DOS, and PET. (MP)

A model approach is suggested for the selection of a microcomputer network that will identify specific needs and arrive at solutions with maximum flexibility to avoid technological obsolescence. Chapter 1 specifies functional needs for a network design. This chapter discusses the process of evaluating whether a network is appropriate; examines and…

Discussion of the effects of copyright on microcomputer software highlights the nature of copyright and situations in which the copying of copyrighted software may be permitted. Rights that a purchaser should insist upon when contracting for computer equipment are noted, i.e., right to test hardware and software prior to purchase. (EJS)

The purpose of this brochure, which was produced as a service to the academic community, is to provide a brief outline of what can and cannot be done legally with software, and to clarify the implications and restrictions of the U.S. Copyright Law. Relevant facts concerning copying software precede the EDUCOM statement of principle on intellectual…

This document defines and describes electronic databases and provides guidance for organizing a useful database and for selecting hardware and software. Alternatives such as using larger machines are discussed, as are the computer skills necessary to use an electronic database and the use of the computer in the classroom. Files, records, and…

Answers questions on software copyright pertaining to teacher/media specialist responsibilities, use of purchased and leased software, backup copies, public domain software, warranties, defective goods, and software lending policies. Information on an existing public domain software-exchange program and a policy statement of International Council…

Because a microcomputer system can be an expensive acquisition, the purchase decision needs to be made carefully. Steps to purchasing a microcomputer include: evaluating the data and word processing needs of the office, determining needs being met with existing capabilities, and making a cost-benefit comparison among systems. (MLW)

Describes possible sources of computer software, including hardware bundles, commercial suppliers, users groups, electronic bulletin boards, as payment for software review services, prototype contracts, and writing the software oneself. Advantages and disadvantages of each, especially in terms of technical support, are discussed. (CLB)

Presents some rules of thumb for parents and teachers who are developing software libraries. Includes comments on drill and practice software, programs (simulations and adventure games) that teach thinking/problem-solving skills, and programs that foster creativity. Also includes list of resources for selecting software. (JN)