Computer software for process control has the primary function of communicating with and governing physical devices. The structure of such software, process-control systems, multitask systems, message passing, problems of deadlock, distributed computer systems, and protection against failure in process-control systems are among the areas examined.…

Addresses the problem of making appropriate use of computers in educational settings by describing use of an electronic mail package in a support role for a bachelor's degree business course at Western Australia Institute of Technology. Students' and teachers' views on use of MAIL and its benefits are discussed. (MBR)

The interconnection between personal computers and other personal, mini, or mainframe computer systems is discussed. The following topics relevant to college personnel are addressed: hardware techniques for tying computers together, advantages and disadvantages of available software, the prospects for sophisticated micro/mainframe links with major…

Describes TAXACOM, an online service of the Clinton Herbarium of the Buffalo Museum of Science in New York. Discusses "Flora Online" which is the first electronic serial to receive a number from the Library of Congress and a Latin translation service for biologists needing help composing Latin descriptions of new taxa. (TW)

Discusses the trends toward developing "spelling checkers" for word processing programs. Compares 19 different commercial dictionary programs with regard to word size, dictionary source, number of words checked, memory requirement, algorithm type, and cost. Cautions against becoming too dependent on spelling checkers, noting their shortcomings.…

This article reviews the many adaptations and applications of microcomputer technology for handicapped children. Specific hardware and software applications are reviewed in relation to their impact on specific handicapping conditions. It suggests that computer applications to the amelioration of handicapping conditions necessarily changes our…

Written for elementary and secondary school teachers with little or no experience with the computer, this book provides an overview of the computer and the role it can play in the classroom. An introduction presents a brief history of computing and a brief discussion of computers in society and computer literacy. Individual chapters cover…

This article is the result of author's visit to more than 16 of China's top university libraries, various Academy of Sciences libraries, and National Peking Library during 1984-85 academic year. Topics covered include hardware inventory, software applications development, Chinese ideograph automation, China's library classification system, and…

Human factors engineering can be defined as the application of scientific principles, methods, and data drawn from a variety of disciplines to the development of engineering systems in which people play a significant role. Since human factors issues arise in every domain in which humans interact with the products of a technological society, six…

Designed to make computer users comfortable with both computers and user/reference manual instructions before they have hands-on training, this primer is an introduction to computer concepts, devices, and terms. Common questions related to learning about data processing are addressed, and the following topics are covered: captured data; reports;…

This article defines three separate categories of microcomputers--personal, desk-top, multi-user devices--and relates storage capabilities (expandability, floppy disks) to library applications. Highlghts include de facto standards, operating systems, database management systems, applications software, circulation control systems, dumb and…

This individualized text was designed to lead students through a step-by-step course in text editing (word processing) using the TRS-80 Model III or IV. The program used in the course is a modification of SuperScripsit, to be printed out on an Epson printer. The text is organized into six sections covering the following topics: getting started,…

A microcomputer can be used in many different ways to assist people with disabilities. A computer's usefulness for a given individual is determined by the computer applications that are needed and by the specific problems the disability presents. In general, there are currently three ways that people with disabilities can use a microcomputer: (1)…

This 5-article section provides an annotated bibliography of 39 books about computer technology; describes peripheral equipment essential for building computer systems; suggests an approach to software evaluation and selection; describes the implementation of a computer program for elementary/secondary students and teachers; and reviews 34…

Twelve articles and reports published between 1982 and 1984 and cited in "Resources in Education" and "Current Index to Journals in Education" are listed in this bibliography on the use of microcomputers for technical processes in libraries. Topics included are communications software for microcomputers; software for…