The trend in school computers is toward "networking"--software controlled by a teacher from a central computer linked to student terminals. Despite rising costs, publishers are trying to meet the market's needs for word processing and database software. Guides published by software evaluation groups are listed for contact. (CJH)

Explains the use of computerized bookkeeping systems called spreadsheets to perform mathematical and accounting functions such as totaling expenditures, averaging test grades, and transferring funds. Advises about adapting spreadsheet programs and discusses several essential features, including linkage, macro functions, and sharing capabilities.…

A recent survey found many teachers are selecting instructional software programs without sufficient research. Outlines four areas to consider when buying instructional software. (MD)

A principal offers school administrators advice on computerizing their offices. Necessary characteristics of computer hardware and software are described. (MLF)

Stand-alone, single-user software programs for classroom use can be prohibitively expensive, compared to information-sharing network systems. Based on a Kansas district's experience, this article explains three types of networks (device-sharing, operating-system-based, and client-server-based) and discusses network protocols, software choices,…

Discusses and provides addresses of major computer software catalogs for classroom computers. IBM's "Software for Education" is detailed and informative. Other catalogs are from K-12 MicroMedia and Minnesota Educational Computing Consortium (MECC). Suggestions on purchase of hardware are briefly reviewed. (CJH)

Discusses computerization of student recordkeeping and the computers and software programs available for different school needs. (MD)

School computer networks range in size from a single-classroom link to a statewide arrangement. Experiences, advantages, and problems encountered in implementing a local area network are discussed. (MLF)

Approximately 435,000 personal computers (roughly 10% of all computers in K-12 education) are used for administrative work. Administrators find that four applications are proliferating: organizing information with database software; communicating with electronic mail and bulletin boards; enhancing presentations with graphics or multimedia…

Establishing a software evaluation committee provides administrators with technical expertise in determining appropriate software. Committee members should include a curriculum expert, a computer expert, and a subject area teacher. (CJH)

By relying on new computer hardware and software, school food service departments can keep better records of daily food consumption, free and reduced-price meals, inventory, production, and other essentials. The most commonly used systems fall into two basic categories: point-of-sale computers and behind-the-counter systems. State funding efforts…

Outlines the basic uses of computer systems and software programs by school administrators. Describes the different hardware and software needed to accomplish complex school administration. (MD)

When purchasing a computer system that will handle both administrative and instructional needs, school executives need to know the ability of the hardware and software to do the job, and the level of vendor support available after the computer has been installed. Lists 14 questions to assess the vendor's commitment and continuing support. (MLF)

Before buying an integrated learning system, DeKalb (Georgia) County Schools developed a one-year pilot program to evaluate available products and select the best system. Performance assessment was based on three factors: student achievement, teachers' classroom management experiences, and district personnel's experiences in implementing and…

Strips away advertising hyperbole to explain multimedia CD-ROM technology and its place in today's classrooms. Only the newest computers are adequate for multimedia CD-ROM; only 10% of all computers in schools have CD-ROM drives attached. CD-ROM drives' performance varies, installation hassles abound, and the "edutainment" market directs…