Some of the most hopeful applications of computers and computer software (particularly as prosthetic devices to aid communication) exist in the area of special education. Several of these applications are discussed. (JN)

In this paper, we introduce an electronic collaborative learning environment based on Interactive Instructors of Recreational Mathematics (IIRM), establishing an alternative approach for motivating students towards mathematics. The IIRM are educational software components, specializing in mathematical concepts, presented through recreational…

With the advent of the computer and user-friendly statistical software packages, factor analysis has become accessible to most researchers. However, conventional factor analysis, or R-technique, is only useful for research concerning types or groups of variables. Educational and psychological researchers are often interested in types of people,…

This paper describes a personal computer spreadsheet set up to carry out hierarchical log-linear analyses, a type of analysis useful for institutional research into multidimensional frequency tables formed from categorical variables such as faculty rank, student class level, gender, or retention status. The spreadsheet provides a concrete vehicle…

This guide contains information on 36 computer programs used for farm and ranch accounting. This information and assessment of software features were provided by the manufacturers and vendors. Information is provided on the following items, among others: program name, vendor's name and address, computer and operating system, type of accounting and…

Written in simple language and designed in a large-print format, this short guide is aimed at teaching home economics teachers to use computers in their classrooms. The guide is organized in six sections. The first section covers the basics of computer equipment and explains how computers work while the second section outlines how to use…

Discusses issues related to the use of classroom management software. Also discusses the components of an ideal program: (1) instructions; (2) planning (criteria generator, lesson goals, and lesson plans/editor); (3) evaluation and feedback utility (student profiles and group/class profiles); (4) graphics utility; and (5) report generator. (JN)

Two mutually supporting computer programs for scheduling final examinations are described. One checks quickly for conflicts in course combinations for examination times, and the other generates a complete, conflict-free exam schedule with appropriate room sizes and types. (MSE)

Computer algebra systems are described. Features of such systems and information on MACSYMA, Maple, muMath, REDUCE, and SMP are given. (MNS)

During the 1980's, the educational community has been keeping its eye hopefully on several campus-wide networking projects. Included are reports on progress in networks and networking at Carnegie Mellon University, the Massachussetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and at Brown University. (JN)

Outlines strategies adopted in producing a software package called SCRIBE and procedures through which tests can be produced, student responses marked, and reports generated. A brief summary of the reactions of teachers to the package is also included. (JN)

Discusses practical uses, potential problem areas, and ethical issues of microcomputer technology integrated into counseling. Makes several suggestions for software development. (Author/ABB)

This in-depth look at database management systems (DBMS) for microcomputers covers data entry, information retrieval, security, DBMS software and design, and downloading of literature search results. The advantages of in-house systems versus online search vendors are discussed, and specifications of three software packages and 14 sources are…

Discusses the nature of programing languages, considering the features of BASIC, LOGO, PASCAL, COBOL, FORTH, APL, and LISP. Also discusses machine/assembly codes, the operation of a compiler, and trends in the evolution of programing languages (including interest in notational systems called object-oriented languages). (JN)

A computer operating system spans multiple layers of complexity, from commands entered at a keyboard to the details of electronic switching. In addition, the system is organized as a hierarchy of abstractions. Various parts of such a system and system dynamics (using the Unix operating system as an example) are described. (JN)