Describes and evaluates the hardware, software, peripheral devices, performance capabilities, and programing capacity of the Sinclair ZX Spectrum microcomputer. The computer's display system, its version of the BASIC programing language, its graphics capabilities, and the unique features of its data entry keyboard are discussed. (JL)

Discusses methods of calculating students' average grades and assigning letter grades by using dBASE II. Procedures are described for creating, recording, appending, editing, and sorting grade files; calculating total grades; using the fixed method to assign letter grades; and finding sample variances. The program for creating command files is…

Explains computer terminology in areas of computer memory, computer languages, programing, computer hardware, and time sharing. A list of computer terms is appended. (EJS)

Outlines the important factors to be considered in selecting a database management system for use with a microcomputer and presents a series of guidelines for developing a database. General procedures, report generation, data manipulation, information storage, word processing, data entry, database indexes, and relational databases are among the…

Describes several microcomputer systems developed for training purposes. Explains how the lower costs and expanded capability and availablilty of the microcomputer can be used by business for employee training and by schools in the classrooms. Includes information on computer programs and memory storage. (MF)

Reviews attributes of laser discs and "traditional" objections to use of audiovisual materials. Use of authoring systems as means of tailoring laser disc programs and updating aging materials is described. Flexibility and power of the Video Nova Authoring System is explained and illustrated and the SONY SMC-70 microcomputer is evaluated.…

This paper documents the program used in the application of the INFO system for data storage and retrieval in schools, from the viewpoints of both the unsophisticated user and the experienced programmer interested in using the INFO system or modifying it for use within an existing school's computer system. The opening user's guide presents simple…

As part of a study to test the feasibility of expanding computer use within the Montana business community, computer systems were field tested in four Montana small businesses. The four businesses were a newspaper, an advertising agency, a sheep and cattle ranch, and a private investment company. The companies employed from 3 to 20 persons. Three…

Reports on tests evaluating nine microcomputer software packages designed for information storage and retrieval: BRS-Search, dtSearch, InfoBank, Micro-OPC, Q&A, STN-PFS, Strix, TINman, and ZYindex. Tables and narrative evaluations detail results related to security, hardware, user features, search capability, indexing, input, maintenance of files,…

Two LOGO dialects are compared for appropriateness for use with second, third, and fourth grade students on the basis of 18 months of experience with teaching LOGO programing language at this level in a four-machine laboratory setting. Benefits and drawbacks of the dialects are evaluated in the areas of editing. screen modes, debugging,…

Presents response to a survey in the March and May 1982 issues of the American Association of Physics Teachers "Announcer" on microcomputer use by physics instructors. Provides background information on microcomputers useful in determining choice of system components, including applications development. Appendices give information on machine and…

This course in microcomputer operations is one of 16 courses in the Energy Technology Series developed for an Energy Conservation-and-Use Technology curriculum. Intended for use in two-year postsecondary technical institutions to prepare technicians for employment, the courses are also useful in industry for updating employees in company-sponsored…