The next wave of personal computers will be smaller, lighter, and easier to use. In addition, there will be increased speed, memory capacity, and standardization. Administrators will be limited only by their imagination in the use of this technology. (MLF)

Analyzes socioeconomic environment of libraries for the next 10 to 20 years and indicates how forecasts are likely to change traditional professional activities. A review of librarianship and information science literature on future of information profession is included and main trends of thought are identified. Twenty-two references are listed.…

Describes an improved method for solving typical timetabling problems which was developed for the American University in Cairo. The article outlines the 26-step algorithm, indicates computer storage requirements, shows how the algorithm copes with conflicts, and explains how to obtain the final output in convenient format. (EAO)

Discusses two aspects of a Geographic Information System (GIS), a computerized system for processing geographic and/or mapped data and components/implementation of a GIS and GIS demonstration in natural resources management. Demonstrations related to lignite mining permit requirements in coastal zone, and location of potential landfills/hazardous…

Four ways in which microcomputers can be turned into laboratory instruments are discussed. These include adding an analog/digital (A/D) converter on a printed circuit board, adding an external A/D converter using the computer's serial port, attaching transducers to the game paddle ports, or connecting an instrument to the computer. (JN)

Compares the rapid development of online bibliographic information retrieval systems with that of videotex, still in its experimental stages. Examples of equipment used and services offered in Canada are given. (Author/JJD)

Highlights the major design decisions for educators who are planning a microcomputer-based learning laboratory. Drawings and tables showing sample layouts, hardware and software attributes, funding sources, and lists of microcomputer periodicals are included. (JJD)

Introducing CHOICES, a computer-assisted guidance counseling service, in British Columbia changed the counselor's image, role, qualifications, and training and brought counselors closer to helping implement a career education program that embraced the total school curriculum in which teachers relate what is being taught to the careers students may…

Discusses efforts to provide new services that publish information more rapidly, provide faster/easier access to information already published, and package information in forms that are used more easily and efficiently. Considers primary information, electronic publishing (including benefits/problems), secondary (indexing/abstracting) information…

Contributions in mineral-deposit model formulation, geochemical exploration in glaciated and arid environments, analytical and sampling problems, and bibliographic research were made in symposia held and proceedings volumes published during 1982. Highlights of these symposia and proceedings and comments on trends in exploration geochemistry are…

Explores the history of robotics and its effects upon the manufacturing industry. Topics include robots' capabilities and limitations, the factory of the future, displacement of the workforce, and implications for management and labor. (SK)

Examines the implications of word processing technology for the English teacher. (JL)

Predicts that the availability of computers and demands for competency testing could drastically alter the character and uses of standardized testing by the end of the century. Warns administrators to begin preparing for the future in order to prevent misuse of the new computer capabilities. (PGD)

In February 1983, Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District in California's Silicon Valley will link its school computer to privately owned microcomputers in students' homes. Funded by a $75,000 grant from the Atari Foundation, the link will initially help students to match their school records with college admissions requirements. (RW)

Louisiana State University applied a wholistic philosophy to its computer applications development. The new standards provide a step-by-step plan for the entire application process, from initiation to implementation and maintenance; list required deliverables instead of rules; and allow the programer and analyst flexibility to exercise technical…