Describes one Kansas school district's efforts to connect all the classrooms in 23 schools through computers, and to do so with wiring that would not become overburdened. The decision-making process to use fiber optics is examined. (GR)

Discussion of the acquisition of small computer systems (microcomputers and software) by libraries for their own use covers the decision-making process, five options available for acquiring software, stand-alone microcomputer packages for library housekeeping, and national bibliographic control of computer software. Twenty-six references are…

Description of "Decision-Analyst," microcomputer software tool designed to analyze complex decisions involving many alternatives, highlights step-by-step approach, documentation, microcomputer requirements, and purchasing information. Two microcomputer users' groups (Apple Computer, Microcomputer Users Group for Libraries in North…

Describes a Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis Approach for the selection of personal computers that combines the capabilities of Analytic Hierarchy Process and Integer Goal Programing. An example of how decision makers can use this approach to determine what kind of personal computers and how many of each type to purchase is given. (nine…

Describes floppy-disk and hard-disk based networks, electronic systems linking microcomputers together for the purpose of sharing peripheral devices, and presents points to remember when shopping for a network. (MBR)

Summarizes procedures of the Houston Independent School District's Technology Hardware Selection Committee for demonstrations of microcomputer products being considered for purchase, including identification of user needs, turning needs into specifications, and seeing the computer demonstrate that it can meet those needs. Committee…

Regardless of favorable advertising and publicity, it is not presently clear that schools should rush to purchase microcomputers for instructional use in classrooms. In regard to instructional questions, much research is needed to determine the effectiveness of the computer under varying classroom conditions. Additional questions needing…

Suggests practical steps the uninitiated librarian can take to become familiar with automation opportunities and discusses issues that should be considered in choosing an automation system for the small library. Getting acquainted with computer world, evaluating library environment, and considering options are covered. Eight references are cited.…

Discusses how one New Mexico school district weighed the choices in selecting and purchasing computer furniture for its classrooms. The purchasing process is described, as well as the types of, and reasons for, the furniture bought. (GR)

Suggests factors to be considered in planning for the purchase of a microcomputer, including budgets, benefits, costs, and decisions. Major uses of a personal computer are described--word processing, financial analysis, file and database management, programming and computer literacy, education, entertainment, and thrill of high technology. (EJS)

Lists seven steps to help in making sound decisions when purchasing educational tutorial software. They include considering all possible options; ordering software on an approval basis; running programs from start to finish many times, focusing on a different aspect each time; and completing the software evaluation form that is provided. (MBR)

Suggests decision making techniques that can be used to estimate the consequences of choosing alternative courses of action, to select an optimum strategy, or to determine how sensitive predicted outcomes are to particular assumptions. Microcomputer use, quantitative techniques, and examples involving item reordering and adoption of word…

Description of features of integrated learning systems (ILS) compares minicomputer- and microcomputer-based systems; provides updated buyers' guide information on networked-microcomputer ILSs, ILS courseware, and minicomputer-based ILSs; and presents educators' opinions of these systems. (MBR)

This document reports results from an exploratory investigation into the adoption and use of microcomputers in the home, which involved interviews with 77 home computer owners, 19 individuals who were in the process of computer adoption, and a small sample of home computer manufacturers and retailers. The first two chapters provide information on…

Discusses development of the first computers; identifies five generations of computers; reviews projections for sales and proliferation of microcomputers into the marketplace; outlines procedures for selecting microcomputers and evaluating software; and reviews several articles on microcomputers centering on user requirements. (MBR)