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…

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)

Offers thoughts concerning the difficulties school administrators face in choosing microcomputer equipment and software with technology improving so rapidly. General purpose software and specific applications are discussed, and a checklist of 18 questions for administrators to use during initial inquiries about software packages is included. (EJS)

Documentation of author's personal experience in the purchasing of a microcomputer discusses background learning, the purchase decision, needs assessment, computer literacy, general information on microcomputers, the situation assessment, and the final check. (EJS)

The desirability of using computer scheduling to assign students to classes (lectures, seminars, and practicums) for courses requested, and the possibility of integrating the scheduling onto the enrollment process, are discussed. (MSE)

This discussion of microcomputer selection for schools presents three hypothetical plans--ranging from $500 to $15,000--for establishing an educational computing program and examines the best way to budget the money. Purchasing information on a variety of microcomputers is included. (JJD)

A compromise between off-the-shelf and tailor-made financial assessment programs for computer use is the modeling system called Education Financial Planning Model (EFPM) developed by EDUCOM. Potential advantages and problems are examined, and potential for further development and uses is discussed. (MSE)

Discusses advantages of using computer-assisted instruction in a college general chemistry course. Advantages include using programs which generate random equations with double arrows (equilibrium systems) or generate alkane structural formula, asking for the correct IUPAC name of the structure. (Author/JN)

Discusses the applications of microcomputers in education, the available hardware, peripheral equipment, costs, user training, software, management considerations, and implications for the future. Twenty-nine references are cited. (FM)

Describes the Automated Reasoning Assistant (AURA) computer program at the Argonne National Laboratory. Given a set of initial assumptions (axioms) and a problem, AURA follows a logical path leading to a solution. Includes types of problems which can be solved. (JN)

The different uses to which two adult educators put their personal computers illustrate some of the many personal and professional applications of microcomputers and point to some implications for home computers in the field of adult education. Relying primarily upon prepared software packages, the first educator relies on his computer as a…

Ten papers presented at a symposium discuss the array of computerized decision-making aids currently available to farmers and ways to speed up the rate of adoption of computers by agriculturalists. Topics presented include the development of software for agricultural decision-making; the role of programmable calculators and minicomputers in…

Presents questions teachers should ask themselves to determine whether they need a gradebook program and questions to consider when deciding what type of gradebook program package to select. (MBR)

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,…

Outline of basic requirements needed to outfit a small public library with microcomputers discusses necessary equipment, cost effectiveness, management information systems, statistics generated, software available, and library procedures to be automated. Fifteen references are cited. (EJS)