As a demonstration of the application of heuristic devices to decision-theoretical techniques, an interactive computer program known as MAUD (Multiattribute Utility Decomposition) has been designed to support decision or choice problems that can be decomposed into component factors, or to act as a tool for investigating the microstructure of a…

This report describes a data management process that provides users with a systematic approach to document identification, and to information storage and retrieval using the AppleWorks database subprogram and a simple organizational scheme. The functions of this scheme are described and include: (1) taking the user from general to specific…

This continuing education curriculum and related materials are designed to provide library professionals with a general orientation to the issues and process of negotiating and successfully securing an automation contract. The course syllabus includes the following topics: (1) definition and objectives of a contract; (2) why vendors typically have…

The overall poor quality of educational software on the market suggests that educators must continue efforts to evaluate available packages and to disseminate their findings. In this paper, weaknesses in published evaluation procedures are identified, and an alternative model, the York Educational Software Evaluation Scale (YESES), is described.…

This paper discusses the programmatic concerns, the evaluation, and the ultimate decisions which led to the transfer of CIS (Chemical Information System) to the private sector. CIS is a complex, integrated system of some 20 chemical databases and data analysis programs which provide access to physical, toxicological, environmental effects, and…

An overview of the research and design process that led to the creation of the Bank Street word processing program for children is reported. The decision to create a word processor for the classroom was based on the findings that commercially available programs took too long to learn, required the memorization of too many commands or rules, had…

Children with learning or adjustment problems can profit from carefully managed application of educational technology. Success in such a venture depends on the quality of the microcomputer, the software, and the operator of the system. A model analyzing this triadic interaction notes variables associated with the computer (hardware resources,…

Designed primarily to enable blind students to more easily use the Open University's Student Computer Services, a project was implemented to generate computer programs (in BASIC) for a limited configuration microcomputer with synthetic speech as the only output program. Three techniques can be identified with synthetic speech generation:…

Intended for use by the Computerized Documentation System (CDS), the Unesco version of ISIS (Integrated Set of Information Systems)--originally developed by the International Labour Organization--was developed in 1975 and named CDS/ISIS. This system has a comprehensive collection of programs for input, management, and output, running in batch or…

Software for computer assisted instruction in writing (CAI/writing) can be described in terms of "generations." The earliest (because easiest) application of computers to writing instruction was in the area of drill and practice. By focusing on one or another element of basic skills, well-designed drill and practice software provides instruction…

The report reviews the implementation of computer programs in special education in the District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) and describes specific applications at the Prospect Learning Center, a special elementary school for moderately to severely learning disabled students. Goals for a 3-year project on computers in DCPS are listed. A brief…

One of 10 in a series on videotex, this promotional brochure discusses the enhancement of cable service systems that use videotex and teletext technologies. It explains the advantages of Canada's approach to videotex, which uses the standard called NAPLPS (North American Presentation Level Protocol Syntax), otherwise known in Canada as Telidon.…

This paper describes one academic's experiences in utilizing a database management system, dBase II, with an Apple IIe microcomputer for record keeping and reporting. Initial problems created by processing data by hand or by a central computer system are described, and the selection process for a microcomputer purchase and software package (dBase…

Reviews: "ArithMagic (Counting, Addition, Subtraction)" which uses graphics to illustrate/review basic arithmetic concepts; "The Sweet Shop" which uses graphics (and a character called Mr. Jellybean) to teach arithmetic concepts; and "Math Magic," a monster-filled arcade game that teaches addition and subtraction.…

The Department of Physical Education and Human Movement Studies uses a course specifically aimed at applying software to the study of physical education. Students can learn how different software may assist in completing tasks related to their research, teaching, and writing. The course is described. (MT)