Concept mapping for program planning involves group brainstorming of needs, individual rating of the results, and individual grouping of needs into themes. Computer sorting of the information results in a pictorial map and statistical ratings of clustered topics. (SK)

Explores the subject of software availability, particularly as it relates to higher education. Also discusses computer anxiety, the economics of software development, provision of needed computer skills, lack of economic incentives, and high software prices. The author makes several suggestions for improving the situation. (CT)

Intended for potential business users, this paper describes the main characteristics of expert systems; discusses practical use considerations; presents a taxonomy of the systems; and reviews several expert system development projects in business and industry. (MBR)

The paper reviews international research on computer assisted learning (CAL) for special populations and examines the issue in terms of the Canadian policy perspective. Data collection techniques included interviews and field observations with researchers, manufacturers, and policy makers. A generic model is proposed for special education computer…

This paper deals with the issues related to the design and distribution of microcomputer software, focusing on agricultural software and its users in developing countries (researchers, Extension educators, planners, lenders). The paper is organized in four sections that discuss the following topics: defining the audience and software needs;…

Discussion of public access microcomputer service areas in public libraries covers walk-in access, software/hardware circulation, online call-in services, and special programs. Principles for successful public access programs are also discussed, including hardware/software selection. Problems relating to equipment breakdown, diskette storage, and…

Provides guidelines and practical advice for planning and running a computer lab for writing. (NKA)

This paper identifies several reasons for the gap between the possible instructional uses of computers and their actual use in classrooms and discusses considerations in planning programs which will bring computer education closer to its envisioned promise. The Assessing the Cognitive Consequences of Computer Environments for Learning (ACCCEL)…

Major changes are underway in the ways campuses deal with computing and computers. Computers are critical tools in academic research and instruction, and they can enhance personal productivity of faculty, staff, and students. Campuses must integrate computing into the curriculum in all three of these dimensions. (MLW)

Recent interest in computer-assisted language learning (CALL) has been accompanied by an expansion in the demand for CALL centers. The planning and creation of these facilities present educators and administrators with a unique set of challenges. This article highlights these factors and illustrates how a CALL center can be successfully…

This digest presents a reprint of an article which examines management principles that should be considered when implementing library end user searching programs. A brief discussion of specific implementation issues includes needs assessment, hardware, software, training, budgeting, what systems to offer, publicity and marketing, policies and…

The majority of funds for the development of educational technology programs should be spent on computer software and teacher education with emphasis on technology as a process for developing effective instruction. The development of technology-based solutions can help resolve the educational crisis in elementary, secondary, and higher education…

This theme issue on classroom management in business education includes 17 chapters on such topics as combating teacher burnout, curriculum improvement, declining enrollments in business education, human relations in the classroom, team cohesiveness and the business department, communicating the essentials for the first week of class, and…