Local area networks (hardware/software devices linking computers together for economy, instructional control of classrooms, and data management, and communications) have great potential for schools. Nature of these networks, district and campus trends, and guidelines for schools are discussed. (JN)

Reports on findings of research done by Nolan Information Management Services concerning availability of microcomputer software for libraries. Highlights include software categories (specific, generic-database management programs, original); number of programs available in 1982 for 12 applications; projections for 1983; and future software…

Explores recent technological advances and their effects on the education of the handicapped. Indicates that scientific breakthroughs never intended as aids to the handicapped have been adapted to remove their limitations and that some inventions designed to improve the quality of life for most people offer disadvantages for handicapped persons.…

Summarizes the approaches to computer requirements at: (1) Clarkson University; (2) Drexel University; (3) Stevens Institute; and (4) Virginia Tech. Software, hardware, courses, finances, faculty development, and other areas are addressed when applicable. (JN)

This article: (1) outlines the freshman engineering program at Iowa State University; (2) describes recently installed computer facilities; and (3) reviews how course content is changed due to the computer being used as an effective learning tool. (JN)

Networks confined to one classroom or several classrooms in one building are called local networks. The nature and uses of these networks, software needed to run a network, software problems, and potential problems are discussed. Information on commercially available networks (including source, cost, hardware/software provided, features, and…

A Heath/Zenith H/Z-90 personal workstation for a PRIME 550 host computer has been developed. The personal computer-based workstation has local editing capability with automatic upload and download of PRIME files, supports a local printer, and provides backup of files on local floppy disk. (Author)

Some ways computers are used in classrooms today and their potential as a tool to enhance instruction are explored. Considered are graphics, lesson planning, test preparation, drill and practice, remedial work, demonstrations, simulations, and introduction to programming. (MNS)

This article, the first in a series on administrative uses of microcomputers, describes steps to follow in selecting a microcomputer system, methods for resolving concerns facing beginning computer users, and ways to identify tasks suitable for computer processing. (PGD)

This study demonstrated that abstracts composed with the aid of a computer were rated higher than those without a computer. Categories assessed included spelling/punctuation, organization/design, sentence structure, clarity, and overall quality. Subjects were 68 students participating in the 1984 Secondary Student Training (SST) Research Program…

Describes a relatively inexpensive system which allows students in a digital control course hands-on experience in the implementation of control algorithms on a variety of processes. The system uses two computers, one for real time simulation of the process and the other for implementation of the digital control algorithms. (JN)

Six school administrators and computer users give advice on coping with microcomputer software problems. Suggestions include contacting other software users, sampling computer programs or watching software demonstrations before buying, and ensuring adequate program documentation. (RW)

The acute care pediatric/adolescent unit at Saint Joseph Hospital in Chicago, Illinois offers patients computer services consisting of recreation, general education, newspaper, and patient education components. To gather information concerning patients' experience with computers and to assess the effectiveness of computer services, data were…

This discussion of increased computer usage at Santa Clara University focuses on results of a questionnaire sent to faculty and staff to determine personal computer usage. Attitudes towards support and training, electronic communications, and information sharing are discussed, and the establishment of the Personal Computer Center is described.…

The distributed data processing system at an Indiana school district can be expanded without causing degradation in response time. Microcomputers are used for daily data entries, and to initiate data inquiries to the mainframe and to communicate with each other. (MLF)