Describes how Suffern (New York) High School creates its master class schedule using a computer-generated "conflict matrix" that shows the enrollment for each course and the number of students who would experience scheduling conflicts if any two courses were offered at the same time. (Author/RW)

Briefly outlines the positions some schools have taken on the use of microcomputers as teaching devices. (IRT)

Outlines the potential of microcomputers in the administration of schools, as well as some of the obstacles to their use. Concludes that extensive use of microcomputers for administrative purposes is probably several years away. (Author/IRT)

Six school administrators and computer users give advice on coping with microcomputer software problems. Suggestions include contacting other software users, sampling computer programs or watching software demonstrations before buying, and ensuring adequate program documentation. (RW)

Profiles an assistant superintendent of a school district in Alexandria (Virginia) and presents his methods of monitoring student progress with achievement test scores and microcomputers. (RW)

Explains why principals' offices need computers and discusses the characteristics of inexpensive personal business computers, including their operating systems, disk drives, memory, and compactness. Reviews software available for word processing, accounting, database management, and communications, and compares the Kaypro II, Morrow, and Osborne I…

Discusses three options for elementary or secondary schools buying microcomputers, including getting either a single comprehensive unit, several fully expandable units, or units with limited expandability. Notes advantages, disadvantages, and brand-name models available under each option. Presents a chart showing the features needed for six…

Evaluates the use of computerized cash registers in school lunch programs. They provide accurate records on food items sold (listing them by categories), can save time, and may perform many other sophisticated functions that improve efficiency and accountability. (MD)

Describes the data management and analysis system of the Lexington (Massachusetts) Public Schools. Discusses the system's database, data dictionary, and end user language and gives examples of the system's use in answering questions about school closings. (RW)

Describes the computer camps operated for students by the Millbury, Massachusetts, public schools. (JW)

Compiles the views of computer curriculum specialists on issues of school computer use, including teacher education, scope of use, scheduling, and integrating actual school needs with parents' concerns about computer education. (JW)

Explains Project Simu-school, a computer program that can predict enrollment, needed buildings and programs, and anticipated costs. (JM)

School systems will soon be using microcomputers to design their school bus routes and aid in the management of transportation programs. Offers guidelines to bring microcomputer bus management to school systems. (MLF)

Describes the characteristics of effective instruction as used in a computer assisted instructional program that has improved student attitudes and mathematics instruction in Bath County, Virginia Public Schools. (JW)

Computers have been misused in education for several reasons, including lack of high-quality software and of new content or instructional methodology. Examples of misuse include drill and practice and tutorial programs. Appropriate uses include programming, writing, access to databases, and simulations. Computers should complement, not replace,…