Local area networks (hardware/software devices linking computers together for economy, instructional control of classrooms, and data management, and communications) have great potential for schools. Nature of these networks, district and campus trends, and guidelines for schools are discussed. (JN)

Provides information on selected computer peripherals which seem most appropriate for education in terms of availability, price, and application. Hardware includes modems, local area networks, printers, graphics tables (as well as touch tablets and alternate keyboards), and joysticks. Each item listed includes company, computer capability, price,…

FILMSHARE, an interdepository loan system of educational captioned films for hearing impaired students, and BICS, a booking and inventory control system, are described. Use of these two microcomputer activities is explained to have increased the use of educational films and to have helped expand the collection as well. (CL)

School computer networks range in size from a single-classroom link to a statewide arrangement. Experiences, advantages, and problems encountered in implementing a local area network are discussed. (MLF)

Differentiates between computer systems and Computers in Biological Education (CIBE) systems (computer system intended for use in biological education). Describes several CIBE stand alone systems: single-user microcomputer; single-user microcomputer/video-disc; multiuser microcomputers; multiuser maxicomputer; and local and long distance computer…

The paper examines several applications of telecommunications processes with handicapped persons, specifically telephone-based data communication systems. The functions of computer components--a microcomputer, modem, printer, and software--are described in terms of communication efficacy. Commercially available information bases are noted, as is…

Three articles discuss (1) the numbers of microcomputers installed in elementary and secondary schools; (2) a distance education project in the Minnesota Extension Service that used a satellite delivery system and integrated it with a computer information network; and (3) the use of facsimile machines for library services. (LRW)

This study examines how the microcomputer could be used in a network with other microcomputers, some established computer technology, and the most recent developments in communication technology. It was also intended to provide information on the feasibility of a provincial communication network between the schools of British Columbia. It was…

This working paper documents the efforts of a professional information center (PIC) in Denver to provide resources that aid teachers and administrators in selecting software programs for varied microcomputer uses. The report outlines the development of PIC as a coordinator and clearinghouse for organizing and disseminating information on computers…

Explains light-wave communication and optical fibers. The impact of fiber optics on communication is discussed; uses of fiber optic technology in elementary, secondary, and higher education are described; and possible futures of light-wave communication are considered, including Integrated Services Digital Networks and the National Research and…

This discussion of the potential of current and projected advances in microcomputer technology for the field of school psychology begins by describing some current applications, including test administration, scoring and analysis, report writing, and data management. Fourteen suggestions for future computer applications in this field are then…

Current developments in the use of microcomputers to meet the learning needs of special education students are discussed. Examples are given of efforts of special projects (such as Project ReTool), Teacher Education Computer Centers in California, and local school districts in the training of teacher educators and special education teachers.…

This paper describes educational activities that make use of microcomputers and information networks to link elementary and secondary students electronically using telecommunications, i.e., communication across distances using personal computers, modems, telephone lines, and computer networks. Efforts to promote global understanding and awareness…

Discusses the evolution of the Minnesota Educational Computing Consortium (MECC), an organization which undertakes the supportive service of encouraging instructional computing activity in schools and colleges throughout the state. MECC's role in developing a statewide time-sharing network and in supporting large scale acquisition of…

Describes support delivered by Harvard University's Beginning Teacher Computer Network which helps beginning teachers in disparate geographic locations. Data from mail surveys, computer message counts, and follow-up interviews indicate the network was most effective in providing moral support and least effective in providing technical support of…