Microcomputers contribute to communications both in the direct sense by expediting word processing and other forms of electronic communication and in the indirect sense by facilitating communication and analysis among managers and researchers. (Author/MLW)

Synthesizes issues covered at a conference on microelectronics: production, productivity, and employment; social implications; market mechanisms v government intervention; the role of national governments; data protection laws; and cultural pollution. (SW)

Describes process by which a multiple-level collaborative database system was designed. Notes that by clearly elaborating the various design goals, it was possible to build a system through which ongoing program evaluation efforts could be easily managed without disrupting the service delivery process. (Author)

Describes a procedure for using commonly available database management systems to produce indexes on microcomputers. Production steps discussed include creation of the database, data entry, database sort, formatting, and editing. (Author/MBR)

Introduces three articles that identify various types of database management programs, discuss their basic features and some typical applications and present a table of the leading programs available; profile several companies that are utilizing database management systems; and illustrate several unusual home applications for hobbyists. (MBR)

Identifies essential database management terminology and groups the various types of database management programs into three basic categories for discussion of basic features, typical applications, and costs. A table of the leading programs available in each category includes the manufacturer's name and address, hardware requirements, and price…

Three separate articles present advantages and disadvantages of microcomputer use in libraries and some guidelines for determining whether their use is appropriate. Highlights include potential of microcomputers for improving existing situations; merits of automation; health hazards posed by microcomputers; man-machine interface difficulties;…

Describes the computer field before the advent of CP/M (Control Program for Microcomputers), an operating system which facilitated compatibility between different computers. CP/M's functions and flaws and the advent of Apple DOS and UCSD Pascal, two additional widely used operating systems, and the significance of their development are also…

Low cost and high capacity microcomputers now have the potential for improvement of library services at various levels. They seem well adapted for text-processing, preparation of local bibliographies and resource guides, and improvement of online database searching. (Author/RAA)

Representing the point of view of Philips Subsystems and Peripherals on Compact Disc-Read Only Memory (CD-ROM) and Compact Disc-Interactive (CD-I) issues, this position paper attempts to point out differences and similarities between the basic CD-ROM standard and the CD-I standard proposed for interactive use of data. (Author/MBR)

Programs are available which permit the computer to be used in the social studies classroom as an information-processing tool. For example, there are programs which allow students to create their own databases. Students can then use the computer to sort their recorded data in whatever ways they choose. (RM)

Computer based education (CBE) and some possibilities for use of such systems are described. Considers instructional materials (computer programs/PLATO), benefits of CBE, recent CBE developments (focusing on PLATO), a case study of PLATO courseware development in Lower Division Engineering Curriculum, CBE authoring capabilities, CBE effectiveness,…

Clarifies the definition of hypertext by contrasting traditional database management systems and associative information management systems software. Relative strengths and weaknesses of each approach are discussed, and useful applications of hypertext on personal computers are described. A glossary and a directory of product information are…

Specific skills and knowledge areas must be developed, added to, or emphasized in the curriculum to prepare students to perform adequately in the high technology information age. Information processing skills and proficiency with computers must become new basics. (Author/JOW)

The original goal of an information center was to create an environment wherein end users could generate their own analyses and management reports from institutional data without the direct aid of information systems staff. It is suggested, however, that real productivity gains are not being achieved. (MLW)