Discusses ultrafast phenomena that may influence device performance and describes new experimental methods utilizing short optical pulses to investigate materials and device structures. (JN)

Distinguishes between computer hardware and software and discusses status of software, application development productivity, software production, and research directions. (JN)

Describes UNIX time-sharing operating system, including the program environment, software development tools, flexibility and ease of change, portability and other advantages, and five applications and three nonapplications of the system. (JN)

Computer applications in scientific instrumentation are traced from early data processing to modern computer-based instruments. Probable pathways toward instruments with increased "intelligence" include, among others, implementation of hierarchical computer networks and microprocessor controllers and the simplification of programing. The…

Discusses implications of a new administration report on science and engineering education that warns of immediate shortages of engineers and computer professionals and of a trend toward scientific and technological illiteracy in the population at large. (CS)

Described is the history and use of computers in all phases of liberal arts education at Dartmouth College. Included are surveys of computer use by students, by instructors, and as an integral part of courses. (SL)

Surveys trends in hardware (logic, memory, storage) input-output technology, software, computer architecture and organization, communications, and artificial intelligence. (JN)

Traces the history and function of State, Operator, And Result (SOAR), a general-purpose artificial intelligence program for solving problems. The SOAR can "chunk" the result of a subgoal and learn from previous experiences. The SOAR could be applied to various expert systems. (YP)

Electronics companies, faced with growing competition from Japan and fearing a shortage of well-trained Ph.D.'s, are pouring unprecedented amounts of cash into university electrical engineering, computer science, and other science departments. Specific examples are cited. (Author/JN)