Discusses benefits and pitfalls of networking or disk-sharing in computer labs where microcomputers are connected to a central disk drive which runs one program for all microcomputers at one time. Copyright and software compatibility from educators' and publishers' perspectives, costs, time factors, and educational objectives are included in the…

Considers educational applications of local area computer networks and discusses industry standards for design established by the International Standards Organization (ISO) and Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE). A futuristic view of a learning laboratory using a local area network is presented. (Author/LRW)

Discusses microcomputer network benefits; points out their current shortcomings in the areas of software availability and legal use, required equipment, and vendor reliability; describes how to set up a worthwhile specialized network despite these shortcomings; and outlines reasons for expecting networks to play a larger future role in education.…

An overview is provided of De Anza College's use of computerized instruction in its mathematics courses. After reviewing the ways in which computer technology is changing math instruction, the paper looks at the use of computers in several course sequences. The instructional model for the algebra sequence is based on a large group format of…

Highlights the major design decisions for educators who are planning a microcomputer-based learning laboratory. Drawings and tables showing sample layouts, hardware and software attributes, funding sources, and lists of microcomputer periodicals are included. (JJD)

The first of three sections of this handbook deals with the use of the computer in the learning resource center. A dictionary of computer terms is followed by a description of areas of computer use in the learning resource center. Information for first-time computer users is then provided, including use of the Apple microcomputer and care and use…

This description of an ideal school computer laboratory focuses on physical characteristics and includes guidelines for floors, walls, ceilings, doors, wiring, seating configurations, and furniture. (LRW)

The computer applications that hold most promise for writers form a large class of utility programs, including word processing and text editing. However, the computer can pose some problems for the student in the writing center. What proportion of writing center students arrive ready to work at the keyboard? Will learning to type present special…

The information on the establishment and management of a school microcomputer laboratory that is provided in this paper emphasizes ways in which use of the facility by students can be maximized, and is intended for use by other districts that have or are establishing computer labs in their buildings. The Lancaster (Ohio) City Schools serves as a…

The addition of the application and use of microcomputers to the academic programs at the University of Akron's College of Education was a gradual process. During the early 1970's, with acceptance by both the administration and the faculty and some budgeting support, a university-wide Computer Based Education Center was established, and the…

This study evaluated the multi-use concept and impact of 30 microcomputers in 2 laboratories of 15 microcomputers each, which were placed in 8 Vancouver, British Columbia, elementary schools for 5 weeks each between January and June 1983. Approximately 2,780 elementary students and 120 elementary teachers, 300 district teacher inservice…

Describes results of survey of media service directors at public universities in Ohio to determine the expected longevity of audiovisual equipment. Use of the Delphi technique for estimates is explained, results are compared with an earlier survey done in 1977, and use of spreadsheet software to calculate depreciation is discussed. (LRW)

Describes Southeastern Louisiana University's developmental English microcomputer laboratory and the changes undertaken since the facility was funded in 1983. Stresses the importance of a good support system of faculty and graduate assistants. Presents evaluation results showing improvements in students' attitudes and writing skills. (DMM)

Study of algebra students' response to availability of optional interactive computer graphing lessons analyzed responses of both users and non-users. Information sought included number of lessons completed, students' opinions of value and difficulty of lessons, whether students felt threatened by computer use, and relationship of gender and age to…

These guidelines for designing and operating a computer assistance facility (microlab) to teach college level composition cover the following areas: resource materials on computers for teaching English; flexibility of microlab design; microlab software and hardware (microcomputers and printers); writing microlab manuals; research potential of the…