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)

Discusses how four standard business software packages can be made to work together as a means of storing herbarium specimen label data and printing new labels. The packages include dBASE III, Quickcode, SuperKey, and PC-Write. Reasons for selecting these packages are considered. (JN)

Shows how electronic spreadsheets can be used in science classrooms for such tasks as ordering and keeping track of supplies and for organizing experiments. Sample printouts of records prepared by use of the spreadsheets are included. (JN)

Sophisticated managers know that reams of data cannot take the place of important information. Planning is necessary to ensure that what is being reported in an organization is necessary and useful and that data are not assembled just because the computer makes it possible. (MLF)

Two college of education experts present a system which trains university students to administer and interpret standardized tests such as the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised (WISC-R), thus easing time demands upon their instructors. (JN)

Needs of college of education faculty for computer literacy are discussed. A definition of computer literacy is first given, followed by an example of how it was developed in the College of Education at the University of Minnesota. (MNS)

Some of the most hopeful applications of computers and computer software (particularly as prosthetic devices to aid communication) exist in the area of special education. Several of these applications are discussed. (JN)

Describes the activities of nine-year-old students during a six-week session designed to introduce them to computers and to the LOGO programming languages. Sample programs written by the students are included. Indicates that these students needed very little instruction or even assistance. (JN)

Reports results of a 1982/83 nationwide survey of administrators and teachers to determine the level of microcomputer use in elementary and secondary schools. Indicates that microcomputer availability and planned expenditures are increasing and that two-thirds of the nation's schools have at least one microcomputer in their facilities. (JN)

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)

Offers thoughts concerning the difficulties school administrators face in choosing microcomputer equipment and software with technology improving so rapidly. General purpose software and specific applications are discussed, and a checklist of 18 questions for administrators to use during initial inquiries about software packages is included. (EJS)

Discusses three options for elementary or secondary schools buying microcomputers, including getting either a single comprehensive unit, several fully expandable units, or units with limited expandability. Notes advantages, disadvantages, and brand-name models available under each option. Presents a chart showing the features needed for six…

Acquaints the reader with the personal computer, emphasizing its use as an aid in the learning process; considers the types of hardware available and software related to educational uses; and offers advice to those just entering this area. (Author)

A description is given of a session at the 1979 convention of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics in which hands-on experiences were used to overcome computer anxiety. (MK)

The inventory system designed for six storerooms in three buildings at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign's School of Chemical Sciences replaced an issue-slip and transactions record system with barcode technology. Data collection error reductions have been significant, making it easier to determine stock levels and plan purchases.…