Cites four philosophies of educational computing: computer as tutor, object to be taught, tool to accomplish specific tasks (such as word processing), and toy. Also describes new, informal educational software for the home market, including graphics programs and disk magazines. Specific examples are included. (JN)

A training program is described which provides, during fault diagnosis, additional information about the relationship between the remaining faults and the available indicators. An interactive computer program developed for this purpose and the first results of experimental training are described. (Author)

Bell Laboratories' much acclaimed UNIX operating system is widely used in educational computing environments. Discusses history of the system, system features and weaknesses, and policy issues. Also discusses some ways UNIX systems are used and recent developments at American Telephone and Telegraph (AT&T) impacting UNIX systems. (JN)

A special National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) service is contributing to national productivity by providing industry with reusable, low-cost, government-developed computer programs. Located at the University of Georgia, NASA's Computer Software Management and Information Center (COSMIC) has developed programs for equipment…

A computer named Sophia at Smith College does far more than routine data processing. Her activities range from matching roommates to classifying plants. (Author/MLF)

Discusses a prototype computer program designed to calculate readability levels and explains why such a program is needed. Calls for support from others who can assist in the program's development. (FL)

Use of a translator and an interrupt handler to generate Escape (ESC) sequences without losing characters is discussed. The system (focusing on use of WordStar with a Zenith/Heath Z-19/H-19) allows assignment to single keys entire sequences of editor instructions and small routines. Program listings are included. (JN)

Beginning on the cover, this article suggests school administrators can reduce paperwork burdens by using personal computers along with general software programs. Describes general programs--such as word processing, item bank, electronic worksheet, and database management programs--and discusses their applications and gives tips for buying and…

Describes Iowa State University's Computation Center. Center's responsibilities include computer science research and providing computing services to the university. System Industries' Trade and Exchange program (permitting used Digital Equipment Corporation disk drives to be exchanged for new SI equipment at substantial cost savings) was used to…

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)

Presents a survey of user needs for microcomputer software in elementary and secondary schools. Approaches to software development are highlighted and the future of microcomputers is discussed. (RAO)

How to use the electronic spreadsheet (e.g., VisiCalc) creatively is discussed, with computer printouts for a number of algorithms. (MNS)

In addition to turtle graphics, the Logo programing language has list and text processing capabilities that open up opportunities for word games, language programs, word processing, and other applications. Provided are examples of these applications using both Apple and MIT Logo versions. Includes sample interactive programs. (JN)

Presents several different perspectives on the copying of computer software (discs, tapes, etc.) in an attempt to determine whether such infringement of copyright, often called "software piracy," can ever be justified. Implications for both the hardware and software firms and the users are also discussed. (EAO)

Discusses uses of Apple microcomputers in the engineering technology department at Western Kentucky University. These include providing homework assignments, computerized laboratory reporting and testing, and development of computer programs on course content. Seven programs related to DC circuit analysis are discussed and titles of other programs…