A bibliography of periodicals and directories which provide descriptions and reviews of microcomputer software for use in educational settings. (JJD)

Documentation of author's personal experience in the purchasing of a microcomputer discusses background learning, the purchase decision, needs assessment, computer literacy, general information on microcomputers, the situation assessment, and the final check. (EJS)

Describes thin clients as low-cost personal computers that lack hardware features and run applications off of a school's central server or via an application service provider on the Internet. Discusses advantages, including being easy to use, easy to manage, and less costly to service; and considers possible problems. (LRW)

The LOTUS 1-2-3's special database management operations are used by school budget officials to display data in a variety of ways to assist their decision making. (MLF)

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)

Examination of the emergence of microcomputer word processing in the library environment highlights library applications, hardware considerations, evaluations of four word processing programs (Apple Writer II, Screen Writer II, Magic Wand, WordStar), and "nonperformance" factors that influence selection of word processing package. Ten…

Highlights approximately 200 computer companies and briefly describes their products and services. Focuses on vendors of hardware, software, and computer-related services and materials. For software, indicates the availability of administrative/business, information systems, computer-assisted instruction, student administration and scheduling, and…

A partial survey of programs available from nine nationally recognized computer software producers briefly describes the programs and points out some unique applications within the field of educational administration. (MLF)

The Northwestern School of Law at Lewis & Clark College in Portland (Oregon) has a microcomputer installation that now carries student data from the application process through to a student's admission to the school. Phase two will carry student data through graduation, and phase three will track the graduate's career and alumni activities.…

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,…

Examines two kinds of microcomputer software designed for school administrators--student/class scheduling and attendance reporting. A product information chart on 16 software programs is included. (JJD)

Before purchasing a specific microcomputer, school districts should consider what types of software applications are desired, whether the micro is capable of being upgraded, which software and operating systems are supported by the micro at present, and how many of the particular model are currently operating. Hardware and software are evaluated.…

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)

Outlines basic choices available in on-screen windowing systems which create separate areas or boxes on microcomputer display screens to simplify control of traditional computer applications. Systems described include Visicorp's Visi On, Microsoft Windows, Digital Research's Concurrent DOS, Quarterdeck's DesQ, Structured Systems' Window Master,…

Examines the automated library system marketplace from three perspectives: the turnkey system (vendor provides complete package--hardware, software, installation, training assistance--to meet needs surrounding particular library function), systems developed by one library which may be transferred to another, and the library microcomputer. Vendor…