Discusses the hardware and software necessary to generate charts and graphs to illustrate numeric data using a microcomputer. The manufacturer, price, operating system, memory requirements, and types of graphs they can produce are given for nine graphics software packages and seven inexpensive plotters. (MBR)

This paper is addressed to librarians and information managers who, as one of the many activities they routinely perform, frequently publish information in such formats as newsletters, manuals, brochures, forms, presentations, or reports. It is argued that desktop publishing--a personal computer-based software package used to generate documents of…

Describes range of options and features in gradebook programs and reviews most popular and readily available software for organizing, calculating, and updating grades: Master Grades, EA Gradebook, Gradeaid, Grader, Graphic Gradebook, Classic Plus Gradekeeping System, Records, Gradecalc, Grade Master, Report Card, Electronic Gradebook for…

This discussion of the impact of computers on education focuses on microcomputer developments since 1975, the advantages of microcomputers over other computers, some innovative computer based activities in the United States, and the principal inhibitors to effective use of computers in schools. Four references are listed. (CHC)

Presents the options and limitations available in microcomputer-based graphic systems. Factors that must be considered when selecting a system--resolution, color, video-compatibility, and cost--and the relationship between these factors are discussed. (MBR)

Discusses evaluation criteria for selecting authoring tools, including system complexity and language, cost, copy protection, ease of learning and use, graphics, sound, and peripheral interfacing capabilities, support documentation, overall performance, tutorials, instructional design and management features, and product support. A…

Describes videotex development; discusses optimal internal organization, visual display, and presentation of information on videotex screen; addresses policy issues of equity, privacy, and costs that affect instructional use of videotex; outlines videotex field trials and experiments within education; and draws conclusions on significance of…

Obstacles to full access to electronic information-based technology and assistive devices for people who are blind or visually impaired include: high costs and limited financial assistance sources for assistive technology, insufficient resources for providing instruction in the use of new technology, and developments such as the graphical user…

Discusses benefits of the adoption of educational software for other languages and cultures and describes experiences translating "Work Rooms" HyperCard software into Catalan and Bulgarian. Topics addressed include English as a foreign language; social and financial benefits; language issues; and visual issues. (Contains three…

Discusses factors that should be considered before purchasing a computer, given the objectives of computer literacy; considering programing in Pascal or Logo, computer-assisted instruction, teaching practical applications, art and music, special education, telecommunications, administration, and library management. A chart showing prices and…

Discusses the use of electronic technologies in scholarly publication. Highlights include problems with traditional media in libraries, including cost and timeliness; benefits of electronic publishing, including ease of searching and accessibility; problems with electronic publishing, including copyright, graphics, and standardization;…