Examines the educational potential of three categories of computer networks--(1) resource sharing networks for sharing expensive peripherals; (2) communication networks for transferring messages between microcomputers; and (3) interactive networks for student collaboration on multiuser tasks. Advantages and disadvantages of networking and the…

Describes new microcomputer software and hardware which simplify data communications between computer systems. "Dumb" terminal software, programs which enhance a computer's data communications flexibility by means of character translation and data buffering, stand-alone versus integrated systems, and "smart" modems are…

Lists and defines a set of 22 basic terms used in descriptions or discussions of word processing systems or operations. (JL)

Contains four tables summarizing the features of popular word processing programs for such microcomputers as the Radio Shack TRS-80s, the Apples, and the Atari. A list of vendors from whom the software packages are available is also provided. (Author/JL)

Examines design, features, and shortcomings of eight disk-based operating systems designed for general use that are popular or most likely to affect the future of microcomputing. Included are the CP/M family, MS-DOS, Apple DOS/ProDOS, Unix, Pick, the p-System, TRSDOS, and Macintosh/Lisa. (MBR)

Argues that, although expert systems--which are supposed to give users all the advantages of consulting with human experts--can be useful for medical diagnosis, where tests tend to be reliable, they can be hazardous in such areas as psychological testing, where test reliability is difficult to measure. (MBR)

Compares machine code with assembler languages, explains the difference between low and high level computer languages, and traces the historical development and special features of the general purpose languages--BASIC, FORTRAN, COBOL, LISP, ALGOL, Pascal, APL, and PL/1--and special purpose languages--C, FORTH, Modula 2, Smalltalk, PILOT, and…

Defines artificial intelligence (AI) and discusses its history; the current state of the art, research, experimentation, and practical applications; and probable future developments. Key dates in the history of AI and eight references are provided. (MBR)

Describes how the microcomputer is linked to the mainframe computer for effective communication within a business, discusses software packages available to facilitate this connection, and provides information on a new IBM product designed to serve as both a microcomputer and a terminal for a mainframe system. (MBR)

Discusses the symptoms and health hazards associated with prolonged use of video-display terminals, with particular emphasis on those hazards related to the emission of microwave radiation by cathode-ray screens. Nonradiation problems are also described, and work-station measurements recommended by the National Institute for Occupational Health…

Describes the kinds of computer equipment needed for a personal word processing system. The characteristics and capabilities of specific devices, including keyboards, printers, and disk drives, are discussed. (JL)

Science fiction writers' perceptions of the "thinking machine" are examined through a review of Baum's Oz books, Heinlein's "Beyond This Horizon," science fiction magazine articles, and works about robots including Asimov's "I, Robot." The future of computers in science fiction is discussed and suggested readings are listed. (MBR)