Experiences in introducing computing into schools in Wexford, Ireland, are described. What went wrong is discussed in terms of lack of clearly defined objectives, teacher training, and relevance. Directions for future work and courseware trends are then discussed. (MNS)

Local Area Networks (LAN) provide a way to share computer resources. Technical terms and concepts of LAN are explained. Identifies some LAN systems, their characteristics, and costs. (MLF)

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)

Describes ways of using spreadsheets to maintain gradebooks, including use of weighted scores to calculate a student's running average and potential for use in preparing report cards. Several spreadsheet programs currently available are reviewed, and their advantages and disadvantages for educators are indicated. (MBR)

Suggests practical steps to follow in searching for microcomputer systems to be used as instructional aids. Poses questions regarding general equipment type; kind of system needed; financial and administrative support; committee formation; information sources; and final decision making. (DMM)

St. Mary's College (Maryland) has computerized its entire 167-acre campus for students, faculty, and the administration. The uses of these computers for instructional, administrative, and research purposes at the college are described. Future uses of these computers are also considered. (JN)

Describes an inexpensive, simple, microprocessor-based instrument which quickly and accurately measures and displays the indicated power and the pressure-volume indicator diagram of a reciprocating compressor or internal combustion engine. Hardware requirements, software considerations, and the instrument's educational value are discussed. (JN)

Presents a programing subroutine which will create a graphical plot that occupies any number of columns specified by user and will run with versions of BASIC programming language. Illustrations of the subroutine's ability to operate successfully for three possibilities (negative values, positive values, and both positive and negative values) are…

This article, the third in a series, provides a list of criteria to be used in evaluating administrative software. Some general guidelines are provided, followed by 30 questions that should be asked concerning documentation, input, processing, output, and other areas. (DCS)

Because it was financially impossible to put a microcomputer center at each of nine Chapter I-funded elementary schools in the Modesto (California) City Schools, a remodeled school bus was converted into a mobile computing center. Objectives of the "Compubus" program and evaluation of the first year are discussed. (JN)

Ideas for computer use are presented. A challenge problem, sources of information, and interesting facts are included. (MNS)

Explains how a microcomputer and a word processor can be utilized to keep teachers' records and presents a brief BASIC word processing program called SCRIPSIT to show how grades can be calculated from those records. Possible program modifications and how to construct the SCRIPSIT file are discussed. (MBR)

In August 1984, each member of the entering freshman class at Clarkson University received a Zenith Data Systems Z-100 PC desktop computer. Although there have been some problems (such as losing homework due to one power failure), results of a student survey indicate overall positive attitudes toward the experience. (JN)

Objectives and outline are provided for a 10-week, upper-level nutrition and computer course. The outline specifies weekly topics and the focus of accompanying lectures and laboratory sessions, including the specific microcomputer program used with each task. (JN)

Recent alliances between communication providers and computer manufacturers will lead to new technological combinations that will deliver visually-based ideas and information to a worldwide audience. Urges that those in charge of future video programs to consider their effects on children's language skills, thinking patterns, and intellectual…