Local Area Networks (LAN) provide a way to share computer resources. Technical terms and concepts of LAN are explained. Identifies some LAN systems, their characteristics, and costs. (MLF)

Offers thoughts concerning the difficulties school administrators face in choosing microcomputer equipment and software with technology improving so rapidly. General purpose software and specific applications are discussed, and a checklist of 18 questions for administrators to use during initial inquiries about software packages is included. (EJS)

Proposes that each elementary and secondary student, by 1990, should be offered an average of 30 minutes per day at a computer terminal. Examines the costs of this proposal and the barriers to its implementation. (Author/RW)

Evaluates technology support in Chesapeake (Virginia) Public Schools, including level of computer use, problem resolution, status of training, and costs. Offers several recommendations to improve technology support. (PKP)

Describes how the Stillwater (Minnesota) Independent School District uses microcomputers and an adaptation of a widely available software program to compute, during collective bargaining sessions, the costs to the district of proposed compensation packages for teachers and other employees. (RW)

Profiles 24 microcomputers used by educators in elementary and secondary schools, presenting information from manufacturers (price, memory, languages, keyboard, screen display, graphics, sound, color, networking, compatible machine) and teacher commentary. Four micro-guides dealing with understanding specifications, finding hardware reviews,…

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)

Interactive video (computer-controlled video instruction) has the potential to transform the educational delivery system in public education, including bringing down educational costs. Fiscal demise of public education, current uses of technology in education, interactive video courseware, production considerations, and future prospects are…

Perspectives presented on the emergence of computer use in elementary and secondary education include a comparison with television's emergence, an outline of the present school use of computers, implications for program improvement, discussion of computers' educational soundness, cost and convenience, and a look at computer use in society in…

Some emerging patterns in educational computing permit speculation about future trends in educational computer hardware, software, and applications. Ultimately, three types of hardware units will be used by schools: professional systems, personal computers (microcomputers), and a new generation of inexpensive personal computers that can be…

Designed to assist administrators in making intelligent decisions about microcomputer selection, this nontechnical guide provides information in three areas: how, where, when, and why to use a microcomputer; what questions to ask about software and hardware; and what terminology to use. It provides a framework for answering six questions the…

Describes the role of computer record keeping in collection management and development of centralized film libraries serving school districts and demonstrates the ability of computers to gather and manipulate collection data that enable film managers to replace, expand, and duplicate materials according to user needs. (CDD)

To help educational administrators and policymakers use computers effectively, this handbook provides an overview of computers and their role in education. Using a question-and-answer format, the author first defines computers, interactive computing, computer hardware and software, and programing languages. The same format is followed in the…

Recent efforts to develop Spanish-based adaptations for alternate computer input devices are considered, as are their implications for Hispanics with disabilities and for the development of language sensitive devices worldwide. Emphasis is placed on the particular need to develop low-cost high technology devices for Puerto Rico and Latin America…

Discusses factors that should be considered before purchasing a computer, given the objectives of computer literacy; considering programing in Pascal or Logo, computer-assisted instruction, teaching practical applications, art and music, special education, telecommunications, administration, and library management. A chart showing prices and…