Developed by the Sperry Corporation, MAPPER is an interactive report processing system that uses simple English-language commands. The system is used by departments at the State University of New York at Albany to access institutional data. (MLF)

A campus computer center at Hofstra University (New York) that holds 70 terminals for student use was first a gymnasium, then a language laboratory. Strands of fiber optics are used for the necessary wiring. (MLF)

At Arizona State University in Tempe, Academic Computing Services provides large-scale support for the computer graphics programs. (MLF)

The Apple game port has two types of inputs: the paddle input and the button input. Scientific applications of these input-output units are discussed, examining analog inputs (potentiometers, thermistors, and photoresistors), single bit digital inputs, and single-bit outputs. (JN)

Students using microcomputers for extensive periods of time are prone to the same problems as those experienced by video display terminal operators. Suggested guidelines include adjustable furniture and equipment, avoidance of eye strain, control of screen brightness and contrast, and specially prescribed glasses. (MLF)

Addresses the problem of making appropriate use of computers in educational settings by describing use of an electronic mail package in a support role for a bachelor's degree business course at Western Australia Institute of Technology. Students' and teachers' views on use of MAIL and its benefits are discussed. (MBR)

Describes TAXACOM, an online service of the Clinton Herbarium of the Buffalo Museum of Science in New York. Discusses "Flora Online" which is the first electronic serial to receive a number from the Library of Congress and a Latin translation service for biologists needing help composing Latin descriptions of new taxa. (TW)

Discusses the trends toward developing "spelling checkers" for word processing programs. Compares 19 different commercial dictionary programs with regard to word size, dictionary source, number of words checked, memory requirement, algorithm type, and cost. Cautions against becoming too dependent on spelling checkers, noting their shortcomings.…

Written for elementary and secondary school teachers with little or no experience with the computer, this book provides an overview of the computer and the role it can play in the classroom. An introduction presents a brief history of computing and a brief discussion of computers in society and computer literacy. Individual chapters cover…

A 1983 site-visit survey of 20 colleges actively engaged in developing their information technology (IT) expertise and resources indicate that many teachers do not appreciate the relevance of the computer to their work; few colleges have an effective and structured approach to IT in terms of staffing, equipment, or application; and lack of…

The Microcomputer Program Oriented Budgeting System (MICROCOMP POB) is an accounts payable system intended for use in school districts. The system is based on the general principles of encumbrance accounting and the use of multiple account numbers. For each account number, the primary information provided consists of year to date balances for…

Designed to assist administrators in making intelligent decisions about microcomputer selection, this nontechnical guide provides information in three areas: how, where, when, and why to use a microcomputer; what questions to ask about software and hardware; and what terminology to use. It provides a framework for answering six questions the…

Discusses the problems of increased noise levels when using microcomputers as interfaces to chemistry laboratory instruments. Describes how to properly connect a laboratory instrument to a microcomputer's A/D converter board. Suggests how to obtain an analog signal free of interference noise. (TW)

Intended for use by teachers, administrators, and boards of education in Tennessee as they make decisions about the instructional and managerial uses of microcomputers in education, this handbook is structured around several main topics: (1) basic microcomputer information, including microcomputer components and peripheral equipment, computer…

Discusses some of the uses of teleconferencing for administrators, teachers, and students. Explains the basic concepts behind teleconferencing, providing examples of online systems and their potential for use by educators. Describes some advantages and disadvantages for both educators and students in utilizing this technology. (TW)