The development and implementation of a microcomputer-based system in a medical school's office of grants and contracts is described, with focus on the evolution from manual to minicomputer to microcomputer and the criteria for selecting appropriate software. (MSE)

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.…

Describes workshops given at Ferris State University for faculty and staff who want to acquire computer skills. Considered are a computer literacy and a software toolkit distributed to participants made from public domain/shareware resources. Stresses the benefits of shareware as an educational resource. (CW)

Describes different applications of microcomputers for acquisitions and collection development in three of the university libraries at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Highlights include differences in hardware and software for similar tasks, utilization problems, generalizations about strategies for effective microcomputer use in collection…

Describes the use of electronic spreadsheet software for library decision support systems using personal computers. Discussion covers templates, formulas for allocating the materials budget, LOTUS 1-2-3 and budget allocations, choosing a formula, the spreadsheet itself, graphing capabilities, and advantages and disadvantages of templates. Six…

Reports on study of the adoption of particular innovation, a software cataloging system, in central Ohio elementary school of approximately 500 students and 22 teachers. Discussion covers rationale for developing innovation, relationship between attributes of innovation and its adoption, use of cataloging components, consequences, recommendations,…

Presented are seven abstracts of papers presented at a microcomputer conference. Areas considered include: development of "Rocky's Boots," a logic simulation game; using computers for practice and problem solving; experiences using LOGO; a computer science curriculum; microcomputers in the science laboratory; computer literacy; and a…

Administrators in an Alabama school district found that purchasing their own data processing equipment was a better buy than the public consortium they had been using to supply data processing needs. The system, its uses, and advantages are described. (MLF)

The unique uses of computers in training school psychologists are reviewed, including their potential role in simulated and actual assessment, case disposition, report formulation, record keeping, and research. The microcomputer as "teaching assistant" offers new opportunities for training to become competency-based. (Author)

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…

Demonstrates how "School Planner," a menu-driven educational facility cost simulation program, is used for showing the changes in space and cost requirements, given varying assumptions about such factors as number of pupils, class size, number of classes per week, and proportion of space used for instruction. (MLF)

How the computer can become an integral part of mathematics learning at the junior high school level is discussed in terms of mathematics processes. The rationale for activities involving programmed processes and examples of them are given. (MNS)

This article describes (1) IBM's National Support Center for Persons with Disabilities, a clearinghouse of information about adaptive devices, software, and support groups helping disabled persons use IBM computers; (2) special IBM products, including the Screen Reader, SpeechViewer, and PhoneCommunicator; and (3) an IBM-sponsored program whereby…

Describes the conversion of a laboratory and change in course content in a chemical engineering curriculum. Lists laboratory experiments and computer programs used in the course. Discusses difficulties during the laboratory conversion and future plans for the course. (YP)

Computer software with graphic representations of functions can teach algebraic concepts, or can blur or obscure concepts of great importance. Making good use and bad use of visual imagery are each discussed. Then a general theory of interpretation of graphs is proposed, and a list of examples is presented. (MNS)