Argues that technical communicators should have a working definition of icons, know when to use them, and understand some of the problems inherent in icon design. Recommends using a workable icon classification system and adhering to some practical design guidelines. (SR)

Examines when and why a "safe" approach to visual design for Web pages is attractive to writers and writing teachers. Considers typical reasons for choosing a "safe" approach to designing the visual dimensions of Web pages, traditional sources in print graphics and writing for safe advice about visual design, and design…

Follows the decision-making process for an embedded help solution to replace a help system that had trained users not to use it. Discusses solutions for implementing embedded help. Considers how to design a solution that not only lures users back to the user assistance, but also encourages users to learn more about the product. (SG)

Argues that instructors can help to alleviate students' fears regarding different multimedia techniques by taking time to give some basic file explanations. Discusses a few of the most common multimedia file types in Windows (graphic, audio, and video), as well as compressed files. Uses slide show software as a base because of its widespread use…

This paper outlines a presentation on the applications of microcomputers to day-to-day aspects of faculty responsibilities. A table displays a classification scheme that matches the faculty work categories of research, service, managing, advising, and instructing against available computer software packages for word processing, filing/retrieving,…

This description of existing hardware and software configurations for integrating computing into higher education instruction emphasizes practical applications for use in the classroom/laboratory setting. Three basic components of a "Computerized Instructional Materials Tool Kit" are discussed: (1) graphic and text generation; (2)…

Describes the uses of the Amiga computer, a "digital canvas" that creates computer-generated art and graphic displays. Examines how computer-graphics programs can be used in a course that is totally interactive with the computer. (MM)

Presents author's view of how computer graphics produced in the classroom enhance mathematical concepts teaching. Specific concepts and related graphics presented include the convergence of power series and the Central Limit Theorem. Formal versus informal instruction, computer assisted instruction versus teaching, and requirements for future…

Computer-aided design provides managers a means of visualizing and interrelating the components of a comprehensive facilities management system. Composites of any combination of transparent overlays can be viewed, stored, and viewed again for ongoing management. Classroom space planning and many other uses are cited. (MLF)

Describes how Harvard Graphics, a computer graphics program, has been incorporated into three courses--Basic Business Communication, Administrative Communication, and Developing Computer Presentation Graphics (a graduate course)--at the Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas. (MM)

Discusses several theoretical and technical aspects of computer-graphics development that are useful for creating hypermedia and multimedia materials. Topics addressed include primary bitmap attributes in computer graphics, the jigsaw principle, and raster layering. (MSE)

The Computer-Based Memorization System (CBMS), which specifies the facts that students are to know and how well the facts are to be known, uses a compiled form of an associative network for its knowledge database. (An associative network is a knowledge representation that uses associations for its basic representation of knowledge.) The CBMS…

Describes a computer-assisted instruction project used for students of German. Because the program has features built in which gives it versatility, it is beneficial to several levels of instruction in the language department and it also involves more than one faculty member in using the computer. (SL)

Presented is an example of this use of spreadsheet software. The basic case is considered with an extension and suggestions for other applications. Emphasized is the use of this method at the introductory level. (CW)

Discussion of several applications of microcomputer programing in developing economics tutorials on videocassettes includes hardware requirements and videocassette preparation. A sample oligopoly program is included. Additional potential applications noted include using the microcomputer as an electronic blackboard and audio synchronized…