Discusses the wide variety of installation standards currently maintained by publishers of CD-ROM databases and the problems this can cause for users. Hardware and software requirements of various CD-ROM databases intended for use on IBM personal computers and compatibles are described. (five references) (CLB)

Intended to enable educators to make intelligent decisions when purchasing hardware and software, this article presents basic information on computer hardware, effective software, and necessary peripherals needed to achieve educational objectives instructors have set. (MBR)

This article describes a number of problems every educational measurement specialist should be prepared to confront before using microcomputers to support test-related activities, including problems with hardware, with software, and with implementing a system. It concludes with a checklist for planning a microcomputer application. (BW)

Six articles on computers in libraries discuss training librarians and staff to use new software; appropriate technology; system upgrades of the Research Libraries Group's information system; pre-IBM PC microcomputers; multiuser systems for small to medium-sized libraries; and a library user's view of the traditional card catalog. (EM)

Electronic portfolios offer an alternative to grades and standardized tests because they store work compactly, accommodate a variety of media, and are easily accessible. This article examines storage methods: diskettes, Zip, Syquest, and Jaz drives; compact disk recordable (CD-R); local area networks (LAN); audio and videotapes and discusses…

This document is the users' guide for Version 1.0 of the Public-Use data tapes compiled by the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), 1985-86. The Public-Use tapes are produced to allow outside researchers access to the NAEP data. The tapes accompanying this guide, one for grade 3/age 9, one for grade 7/age 13, and one for grade…