Indicating that most microcomputer books aren't worth reading, offers several rules of thumb for selecting a microcomputer guide. Also provides a list of 13 noteworthy books, providing title, source, and current cost. (JN)

Careful evaluation of needs is necessary in order to computerize without waste of resources or delay of implementation. This article offers guidelines for selection, acquisition, and installation of computer hardware and software. (DF)

Presents a list of questions about costs and program needs that an educator should consider before purchasing a microcomputer. (SJL)

Presented in nontechnical language, this guide suggests criteria for the selection of three computer hardware essentials--a microcomputer, a monitor, and a printer. Factors to be considered in selecting the microcomputer are identified and discussed, including what the computer is to be used for, dealer support, software availability, modem…

This guide for educational practitioners who are considering the purchase of a microcomputer provides a brief discussion of basic information about computers, some criteria to use in conducting a needs assessment prior to the purchase of any microcomputer equipment, and criteria for use in the evaluation of various microcomputers in relation to…

Offers suggestions for English teachers to use in selecting the best microcomputer for their needs. (FL)

This guide describes the various hardware and software components needed for computer-to-computer communications in nontechnical language and provides guidelines for selecting an appropriate communications package for a microcomputer. Hardware components discussed include both internal and external modems and the advantages and disadvantages of…

Briefly discusses the important criteria by which microcomputer programs intended for instructional use should be evaluated, presents a series of guidelines for submitting reviews of computer programs developed for instructional purposes (courseware), and provides a copy of the Curriculum Review Courseware Evaluation Form. (JL)

Several principles of computerization are offered to help show how computers can improve efficiency. Computer buying guidelines are suggested. (DF)

The home computer must be outfitted with high quality software to be a valuable educational tool. Suggestions on where to look for software and standards to use in evaluating materials are offered. (DF)

This guide developed by MicroSIFT, a clearinghouse for microcomputer-based educational software and courseware, provides background information and forms to aid teachers and other educators in evaluating available microcomputer courseware. The evaluation process comprises six stages: (1) sifting, which screens out those programs that are not…

Parent guidelines for selecting appropriate software for three- to five-year-olds address trying the software out, what to look for, and what to expect. Evaluation criteria cover appropriate vocabulary level, individual needs, child involvement, target audience, creative presentation, and useful feedback. (CB)

Argues that most school systems in the United States fit into one of the five evolutionary stages of computer use: initial experimentation, state legislative involvement, search for software, initial computer integration, and full integration. These stages are described and tips on how to choose the best computer software are given. (MBR)

Designed to provide guidance in selecting the appropriate microcomputer-based word processing program, this document discusses the key characteristics of word processing software, including formatting, editing, merging, and printing. Possible capabilities of word processing features are identified, i.e., indent, tab, center, creation of footnotes,…

This guide developed by MicroSIFT, a clearinghouse for microcomputer-based educational software and courseware, provides background information and forms to aid teachers and other educators in evaluating available microcomputer courseware. The evaluation process comprises four stages: (1) sifting, which screens out those programs that are not…