Describes the VECM (Vocational Education Curriculum Materials) database and how it can help solve curriculum problems. Elements of this database are discussed: ease of entry and retrieval of information, how information is coded, equipment needed to gain entry, how to use the database, uniqueness of the database, and membership information. (CT)

Describes four major subsystems of OCLC's LS/2000, an integrated local library system which can be adapted to wide variety of library environments: multibranch circulation and online catalog searching; online cataloging and authority file maintenance; management report generation; and system set up parameters that translate local library policy…

Nurses need to examine critically the effects of computerized curriculums on the teaching-learning process. (Author)

Describes the development of a data acquisition system to interpret clientele data at a college counseling center. Describes reports generated by the system. Discusses benefits of the system including time efficiency, detection of changing trends and data availability. (RC)

The Museum of Science and Industry (Chicago) has created a new exhibit, "Technology: Chance or Choice?," which emphasizes the human impact on technology. Development of and techniques used in the exhibit are discussed. The latter include microcomputers placed throughout the exhibit to pose questions about critical issues raised by particular…

Describes the statewide computerized system developed in Minnesota following the 1976 enactment of the Uniform Financial Accounting and Reporting Standards (UFARS) law. UFARS includes provisions for an advisory council responsible for recommending accounting and reporting procedures, and seven data processing centers to serve all 560 Minnesota…

Processes involved in computer searching of information systems are explained, with some caveats for the use of online searching by students and faculty. Among the concerns are overestimates of the efficacy of searching, inconsistency in search services and strategies, and other potential problems of search results' relevance. (MSE)

Four uses of microcomputers in elementary science education are discussed. These include: (1) drill and practice; (2) simulation; (3) problem solving; and (4) programing. Indicates that mathematics instruction may be enhanced in the same ways. (JN)

Regrouping cars from incoming trains into blocks of cars for outgoing trains is accomplished in railroad "hump" classification yards. Discusses: hardware and software elements of such installations; physical models on which software is based; success in predicting/regulating car speeds; and results of recent research into factors…

Describes the use of an Energy-Environment Simulator in environmental/energy education programs. The simulator is a specially designed analog computer that simulates real-world conditions of energy production and use. Energy resources, demands, and the environmental effects of energy use are programmed into the computer. (Author/JN)

Stresses providing reliable, factual information directly to users. Describes classes of data, the need for good data, quality control of databases, the electronic revolution in data dissemination, systematic cooperation to reduce costs of developing online services and of creating data bases, and trends in data dissemination. (JN)

Provides procedural details of Linear Programing, developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to devise a dietary guide for consumers that minimizes food costs without sacrificing nutritional quality. Compares Linear Programming with the Thrifty Food Plan, which has been a basis for allocating coupons under the Food Stamp Program. (CS)

Discusses geoprocessing, a computer mapping technique used by the Portland (Oregon) School District in which geographic analysis and data processing are combined. Several applications for administrative decision-making are discussed, including bus routing and redistricting. (JJD)

Discusses various issues in science curriculum/instruction and proposes that the National Science Teachers Association assume the responsibility for establishing quality science instruction. Topics/Issues include, among others, competencies science teachers will need in the future, computer oriented programs, and interdisciplinary science…

PROMIS (Problem Oriented/Medical Information System), a performance-based system of medical education, is described and suggestions for its application to other educational settings are discussed. PROMIS emphasizes the clarification of educational goals and the evaluation of students doing real work in real settings. (JMD)