Beginning on the cover, this article suggests school administrators can reduce paperwork burdens by using personal computers along with general software programs. Describes general programs--such as word processing, item bank, electronic worksheet, and database management programs--and discusses their applications and gives tips for buying and…

Presents the concept of a total Media Management System which is cost-effective, time saving, and functional. This system is able to preview and evaluate audiovisual materials, designate materials as having been acquired, and catalog, book, and distribute them. Examples illustrating computer output for several of the tasks discussed are included.…

Documentation of author's personal experience in the purchasing of a microcomputer discusses background learning, the purchase decision, needs assessment, computer literacy, general information on microcomputers, the situation assessment, and the final check. (EJS)

Suggests practical steps the uninitiated librarian can take to become familiar with automation opportunities and discusses issues that should be considered in choosing an automation system for the small library. Getting acquainted with computer world, evaluating library environment, and considering options are covered. Eight references are cited.…

Responds to comments in March/April issue of this journal on use of microcomputers in elementary/junior high schools, focusing on use in elementary schools. Addresses issues of funding for microcomputer purchases, availability of software, and teacher/student training. Suggests that programing is not an essential requirement before purchasing…

Lists computer programs selected on basis of following criteria: (1) applicability or easy adaptability to academic or research library environment; (2) operative on three microcomputer brands found in academic and research libraries; (3) good or excellent reviews appearing in software magazines; (4) price ranging from $50-$350. Vendor addresses…

This discussion of microcomputer selection for schools presents three hypothetical plans--ranging from $500 to $15,000--for establishing an educational computing program and examines the best way to budget the money. Purchasing information on a variety of microcomputers is included. (JJD)

Offers suggestions about using microcomputers for school administration and lists hidden costs of computerization, including administrator time, consultants, machine maintenance, backup systems, appropriate furniture, insurance, and staff training. (JM)

Citing the growing interest in using microcomputers as an aid in educational administration, this report discusses factors that must be considered when purchasing a computer and describes an actual case of computer implementation for administrative purposes. The first steps in the purchasing process are to assess and to prioritize the…

Based on online searching experiences on microcomputer at a small liberal arts college, this article outlines for the novice advantages and disadvantages of micro-searching, legal implications, future trends, and factors to consider in selecting hardware and software. A 16-item bibliography arranged in order of usefulness and 10 references are…

Changing educational and technological conditions have expanded the responsibilities of school district purchasing departments. Purchasing officers need to continue self-improvement activities and use microcomputers for effecient department operation. (MLF)

This article defines three separate categories of microcomputers--personal, desk-top, multi-user devices--and relates storage capabilities (expandability, floppy disks) to library applications. Highlghts include de facto standards, operating systems, database management systems, applications software, circulation control systems, dumb and…

Policies on microcomputers are presented for four colleges. For Clemson University, purchasing computer hardware and software is addressed. Attention is directed to obtaining approval for purchasing hardware and the policy regarding connecting terminals and modems. Eight steps required for obtaining computers are listed, including those relevant…

Local area networks (LAN) are privately owned communication systems that connect multivendor devices at high speed. As microcomputers become more common in schools, user interest in sharing information, software, and peripherals will increase. A basic understanding of the operation of all LAN's can be gained by knowing four elements: media,…

The microcomputer has five basic applications in marketing education--a remedial/tutorial application, instructional purposes, simulation, the project data base, and classroom management. Examples of word processing applications of a microcomputer are updating annual training plans and producing letters to advisory committee members, parents, and…