This joint research and development project of two state departments of education used the DACUM (Developing a Curriculum) process to identify microcomputer competencies for vocational instructors. Brainstorming techniques were used to identify five categories of microcomputer applications and to determine which competencies belonged in each…

Describes a project developed for fifth graders that was designed to teach them about databases through collecting information for a community census. Activities supported by the census project are listed, including both noncomputer activities and computer activities; and an effective sequence of instruction with databases is discussed. (LRW)

Describes the utilization of database management as a inquiry tool to aid higher-level thinking in a fourth-grade American Indian studies course. (MBR)

Discusses the dynamics and outcomes of an unplanned classroom activity that developed from the integration of the use of spreadsheets with the study of the characteristics of previously collected seashells, specifically their color, size, shape, texture, and any other obvious differences. (JJK)

Discusses three main ways information on a school's software collection may be organized for access by school personnel to maximize its use--annotated lists, keyword database searching, and cataloging for inclusion in card catalog. The basic steps of data collection, storage, and retrieval required for all three methods are outlined. (MBR)