Beginning on the cover, this article suggests school administrators can reduce paperwork burdens by using personal computers along with general software programs. Describes general programs--such as word processing, item bank, electronic worksheet, and database management programs--and discusses their applications and gives tips for buying and…

Six school administrators and computer users give advice on coping with microcomputer software problems. Suggestions include contacting other software users, sampling computer programs or watching software demonstrations before buying, and ensuring adequate program documentation. (RW)

Among other services, the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory contracts with local school districts, state departments of education, social service agencies, colleges, universities, and other organizations to provide roughly 90 third-party evaluations per year of projects funded through such sources as Elementary and Secondary Education Act…

Discusses three options for elementary or secondary schools buying microcomputers, including getting either a single comprehensive unit, several fully expandable units, or units with limited expandability. Notes advantages, disadvantages, and brand-name models available under each option. Presents a chart showing the features needed for six…

Purchasing an inhouse computer system does not have to be a nightmare if you are aware of the obstacles and know how to overcome them. (Author/JM)

Responds to comments in March/April issue of this journal on use of microcomputers in elementary/junior high schools, focusing on use in elementary schools. Addresses issues of funding for microcomputer purchases, availability of software, and teacher/student training. Suggests that programing is not an essential requirement before purchasing…

This discussion of microcomputer selection for schools presents three hypothetical plans--ranging from $500 to $15,000--for establishing an educational computing program and examines the best way to budget the money. Purchasing information on a variety of microcomputers is included. (JJD)

In order to process data in a computer, application software must be either developed or purchased. Costs for modifications of the software package and maintenance are often hidden. The decision to buy or develop software packages should be based upon factors of time and maintenance. (MLF)

To maximize efficiency and minimize cost, purchasing departments are using computers to issue purchase orders, expedite orders, and control inventory. In order to familiarize prospective users, explanations of some of the terminology, equipment, and other pertinent facts associated with automation are supplied. Six pages, in outline form, explain…

An automated list of bidders can be organized to provide an effective means of soliciting qualified suppliers to school districts. The system in Frederick County, Maryland, is described. (MLF)

Outlines the development of a computerized purchase requisition system for schools that is more efficient, cost effective, and dependable than a manual purchasing system. Includes two tables, one a model form for entering purchase orders, the other a purchase order detail form. (MD)

Explains how a microcomputer scheduling program works and discusses specific features that should be considered in selecting a program. A chart detailing capabilities of 17 scheduling programs is included. (MBR)

Points out the advantages and disadvantages of the four ways to design and use a student information system: (1) manual files, (2) use of a computer located in the school building, (3) shared use of a larger computer, and (4) use of a commercial service bureau. (Author/MLF)

Twelve publications already in the ERIC system that deal with microcomputers were selected for annotation. Two of the publications are conference proceedings that explore the use of computers. Another two are administrator handbooks dealing with the acquisition and the use of computers. Reference works cited include a guide for instructional…

The Computerized Fleet Maintenance (CFM) program of a New York school district has major component areas of garage operation, vehicle replacement, and fuel consumption. CFM detects high expenditures and provides the rationale for bus replacement. (MLF)