The advancement of microcomputer technology has reached the point where color monitors and color computer software are fast becoming the norm in our information society. Color is another channel for communication, and can be used for enhancement of both aesthetic characteristics and productivity. The advantage to the use of color for communication…

Provides a brief discussion of the graphics capabilities of microcomputers and describes specific graphics hardware and software that are available for the more popular microcomputers. The names and addresses of the producer/distributor and prices are given for each item. (CHC)

Presents a general overview of various light-related findings with implications for the computer assisted learning environment. Suggests that software developed for instructional purposes incorporate color to maximize visual sensitivity and retention of information while minimizing visual fatigue. (Author/JN)

This hardware review describes such innovative features of the Texas Instrument Portable Professional Computer as integrated color screen and option slots permitting customization as well as the physical unit (inside and out), its mass storage flexibility, and sturdiness. A comparison with the IBM PC Portable is included. (MBR)

Describes a study that investigated color combination preferences of three- to six-year-olds performing a simple perceptual task on a microcomputer screen. Comparisons with Swedish research are made, implications for the production of educational materials for young children are discussed, and suggestions for further research are made. (10…

Discusses the impact of the presentation of data on the educational effectiveness of computer assisted learning systems, describes some of the existing systems for controlling the display of instructional data on CRTs, and outlines a project undertaken at the University of Western Ontario to exploit the capabilities of microcomputer color…

Discusses the role and use of color in instructional computing. Suggests teachers consider: (1) how color symbolically represents content and reinforces organization of lessons; (2) how color enhances a lesson's style and short/long-term memory; and (3) cost of classroom color computer assisted lessons. (Author/JN)

Describes the development of the microcomputer-based educational software, DNAzoom, which was designed to introduce undergraduates in molecular biology to computer analysis of DNA protein sequences. Highlights include graphical presentation of data, the functional use of color, a menu-oriented interface, and students' evaluations of the software.…

Lists 27 suggestions for making cost-effective decisions when buying personal computers. Topics covered include physical comfort; modem speed; color graphics; institutional discounts; direct-order firms; brand names; replacing versus upgrading; expanding hard disk capacity; printers; software; wants versus needs; and RLIN (Research Libraries…

Describes VASARI (the Visual Art System for Archiving and Retrieval of Images), a project funded by the European Community to show the feasibility of high resolution colormetric imaging directly from paintings. The hardware and software used in the system are explained, storage on optical disks is described, and initial results are reported. (five…

Describes The Electric Poet, a computer program which uses color graphics to free the poet from mundane mechanics and allow new possibilities of form in writing verse. Its applications in working with hearing impaired and learning disabled students and use in studying works of the great poets are discussed. (MBR)

Discusses physiological and psychological aspects of color. Includes guidelines for using color effectively, especially in the development of computer programs. Indicates that if applied with its limitations and requirements in mind, color can be a powerful manipulator of attention, memory, and understanding. (Author/JN)

Discussion of online catalogs focuses on issues in interface design. Issues addressed include understanding the user base; common user access (CUA) with personal computers; common command language (CCL); hyperlinks; screen design issues; differences from card catalogs; indexes; graphic user interfaces (GUIs); color; online help; and remote users.…

Discusses two factors to consider in relation to the use of color and the design of computerized instructional materials: the purpose of using color in instruction and how the microcomputer, with its limitations, affects color use. Principles for the use of color are suggested. (Author/MBR)

Describes a graphical method of approximating roots of complex functions that uses the multicolor display capabilities of microcomputers. Theorems and proofs are presented that illustrate the method, and uses in undergraduate mathematics courses are suggested, including numerical analysis and complex variables. (six references) (LRW)