Reviews six microcomputer-based administrative software programs that handle scheduling, grade reporting, and attendance tasks: (1) Alpha II, (2) Harts III, (3) Mount Castor, (4) The Osiris System, (5) The School System, and (6) STARS (Student Academic Records System). Companies producing the programs, systems they run on, and price information…

Describes Electronic Software Delivery System (ESDS), which allows teachers in the Los Angeles Unified School District to access and preview software stored at a central location. Hardware used in the system is explained, and security of programs stored on the system is emphasized as the key to its success. (LRW)

Describes range of options and features in gradebook programs and reviews most popular and readily available software for organizing, calculating, and updating grades: Master Grades, EA Gradebook, Gradeaid, Grader, Graphic Gradebook, Classic Plus Gradekeeping System, Records, Gradecalc, Grade Master, Report Card, Electronic Gradebook for…

Describes capabilities of test and worksheet generator software; discusses features to consider when evaluating the software for purchase; and presents reviews of eight test and worksheet generators: P.D.Q., Testmaster, Easy Quiz Maker, EA Mathematics Worksheet Generator, Mathematics Worksheet Generator, Earth Science Test Maker, Individualized…

Highlights major happenings in educational computing in developed nations worldwide including Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Great Britain, Japan, Russia, and Sweden. The topics discussed include approach to computer education, each country's use of microcomputers in vocational schools, software development, and teacher education. (MBR)

A survey of 328 educators to determine trends in administrative computing shows that most administrators have microcomputers, and the most popular use of computers is for keeping student records. Hardware and peripheral equipment currently used and being considered for purchase are described, and budget information is also presented. (LRW)

Discusses the basic design and special features of robotic dialing systems that are programmed to make calls to parents of truant students and presents detailed information on seven currently available self-dialing attendance systems. (MBR)

Discusses use of PFS File, a database management system under development by the Kansas State Department of Education, to store and sort individual education program (IEP) records and generate report information from these records. File design and range of reports that can be generated are reviewed. (MBR)

Explores classroom microcomputer applications in elementary and secondary social studies. The utility of drill and practice and tutorial programs is reviewed; computer spreadsheets to project election tallies and databases for use in analyzing voter data are described; and economics and election simulations are compared. (MBR)

Argues that schools are putting all their money into hardware and software and neglecting needed staff development programs for technology use. Examines reasons for this neglect, problems with legislative pressures, the importance of planning, and models for effective training programs. (AEF)

Reviews CD-ROM encyclopedias to guide librarians and teachers in decision making. Encyclopedias are divided into two groups: mass market for ages 9 and up, and academic for ages 14 and above. A table lists products with addresses and Web sites, as well as information on price, minimum specs, number of articles, Internet connection, strengths, and…

Presents guidelines for library media specialists who are preparing to install automated systems to provide improved management and access services. Reasons for automating library management are discussed; hardware and software considerations are reviewed, including costs and compatibility; and retrospective conversion of bibliographic records is…

Presents edited transcript of a conference that examined how computer technology can be effective in helping at-risk students. Highlights include defining at-risk students; examples of how technologies are being used as intervention tools; adult education programs; software; how the industry can help educators; and policy recommendations. (LRW)

Describes writing skills software that helps reinforce language building blocks and word processing software that helps students develop as writers. Also included are outlines of five word processing activities; a software directory; a description of a writing instruction project; and discussion of whether computers encourage revision. (MBR)

Discusses how and why three schools are using computers to teach bilingual students and describes the CHIPS Project, West New York; Computer Education Language Learning Program, Irvine School District; and Applied Computer Technology in Education Project, Compton Unified School District. Six bilingual education computer-using demonstration…