In his keynote address the author acknowledges possibilities of personal computer technologies for disabled persons; raises such questions as amount of benefit to be derived, numbers of disabled to benefit, and whether the disabled will be "have nots;" then explains work of the Committee on Personal Computers and the Handicapped. (MC)

Describes a cost-effective way to create an effective simulation for students that teaches them how personal computers are used in the workplace. (JOW)

This guide is designed for federal executives and managers who have a responsibility for the planning and management of software projects and for federal staff members who are affected by, or involved in, making software changes, and who need to be aware of steps that can reduce both the difficulty and cost of software maintenance. Organized in a…

Presents reasons why microcomputers are a better investment than simply upgrading to a plain video terminal, and gives advice on how to shop for your first microcomputer. (LLS)

Desktop personal computers do not appear to have increased productivity, largely because employees are not being trained properly. An effective training plan includes high quality internal training staff, connection with business objectives, and focus on career development. (SK)

Explains the use of a standard text-based database program (i.e., dBase III) to run external programs that display graphic files during a database session and reduces costs normally encountered when preparing a computer to run a graphical database. An example is given of a simple database with two fields. (LRW)

This description of an electronic bulletin board used by the Wisconsin Interlibrary Services network to process requests covers hardware, software, costs, advantages of the system, operation, training, maintenance, and problems encountered. (MES)

A study was conducted to examine microcomputer usage in secondary schools with special emphasis on business education. Surveys were sent to principals of 200 Ohio high schools. It was found that Apple and Radio Shack microcomputers are the most widely used and that more than one source will be utilized to fund future computer purchases. (CT)

New "supermicros," extremely powerful microcomputers, may take the place of minicomputers in college administration. The differences between the two types of computers are explained and suggestions are offered for what and when to buy. (MLF)

The considerable expense of computer hardware and computer language complexities are limitations to the use of computer assisted instruction in higher education. The use of microcomputer systems is suggested as an alternative. Advantages, limitations and a recommended system are discussed. (JMD)

Discusses microcomputer-based reformatting of text to help learners with disabilities. Highlights include letter size; spacing; copyright problems; expanding the target audience to make systems more cost effective; writing skills; voice input; and further enhancements, including networked systems and the use of hypertext. (14 references) (LRW)

Examines issues related to using microcomputers for distance education. They include cost=effectiveness, accreditation for schools with a preponderance of courses taught via telecommunications, and such certification concerns as whether credit can be given for courses taught by teachers not certified in states into which the courses are…

Focuses on the cost-saving technique--selecting the contract that offers the best discount--available when using the Lockheed DIALOG system. Examples of savings, password/contract options, and discount plans are given and a microcomputer program written in BASIC II to aid in calculating savings is described. (EJS)

Presented is a personal computer computer-analysis system to help the consumer decide which microcomputer best suits his needs. (KC)

Explains the COLD (Computer Output Laser Disk) system and describes current applications. Use of the COLD system to replace COM (Computer Output Microfilm) is discussed; advantages and disadvantages of the COLD system are considered; optical disks OD-WORM (Optical Disk-Write Once Read Many) versus CD-ROM are compared; and equipment and software…