This paper presents a cognitive account of both the advantages and disadvantages of direct manipulation interfaces, i.e., the use of icons to manipulate and interact directly with data rather than writing programs or calling on a set of statistical subroutines. Two underlying phenomena that give rise to the sensation of directness are identified.…

The currently operational version of the INGRES data base management system gives a relational view of data, supports two high level, non-procedural data sublanguages, and runs as a collection of user processes on top of a UNIX operating system. The authors stress the design decisions and tradeoffs in relation to (1) structuring the system into…

The design, development and use of computer systems to support decision making within human service organizations and the conceptual background of decision support systems are discussed. (Author/BL)

The world of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) involves a set o complex multi-role human/computer interactions. One important aspect of this interaction concerns the analysis of response data for scientific or instructional purposes. This paper describes the human/computer operational interactions that the personnel at the Florida State…

Discusses what generalized data-based management systems are and how they can be utilized in the field of education. Advantages of using the system and its effect on educational management are considered in detail. (DN)

Fifteen papers on computer centers and data processing management presented at the Association for Educational Data Systems (AEDS) 1976 convention are included in this document. The first two papers review the recent controversy for proposed licensing of data processors, and they are followed by a description of the Institute for Certification of…

The computer is seen as a powerful tool that offers great potential for administrators in tertiary institutions. The impact of the computer on processing data, database concept, computer communication, utilization of operations data for analytical reports, use of management science tools, and evolution in administrative data processing are…

With emphasis on currently operating and planned systems that assist users in accessing available network services, this report identifies the techniques used in network access devices. By examining these devices, the trend toward improving the interface between the user and the computer is brought more clearly into focus and up to date. One…

The decision support system (DSS) environment, the functional requirements of a DSS, and the architectural requirements of the computer systems and communications network necessary to support a DSS are discussed. Changes in the computing environment that are necessary to implement decision support systems are suggested. (Author/MLW)

At Indiana University the demand for word processing, the burden on the university's text processors, and the variety of commercial equipment demanded detailed, systematic technical and social planning. In the process of studying available equipment and software, the university's Office Systems Groups developed tools for evaluating the technology.…

Three outstanding features of the Rapidly Extensible Language (REL) System are discussed. REL itself is an integrated software system designed to facilitate conversational interaction with the computer, especially by those working with dynamic, highly interrelated data. The system's main parts are: 1) the operating system, which manages the…

Word processing and data processing share a working relationship in a total information system, the technology for which is currently available. The article discusses word processing hardware, principally minicomputers, and personnel requirements, with implications for office occupations education. (MF)

The third report from a comprehensive Unesco study, this document traces the history of the application of computer-based technology to the book distribution process in the United States and indicates functional areas currently showing the effects of using this technology. Ways in which computer use is altering book distribution management…

Computers can be valuable tools of humanization if educators use them to relate the curriculum to the students' lives and to make schools more desirable places in which to learn. Despite the facts that much of the content of both the country's generally accepted national goals and students' interests and problems is affective in nature, most…

The OSIRIS system is a prototype information retrieval system having the following components: an automated microfiche file having a capacity of 5000 punch card sized microfiche with a remote control 21 inch TV console for retrieving, magnifying (0-250X), and displaying any of the images on the microfiche; and a remote computer terminal for the…