Discusses the use of computers in the classroom, suggests visions of an educational future, and describes a project developed at the University of Maryland to examine the effects of computers on the college-level physics curriculum. Topics discussed include microcomputer-based laboratories, increased modeling power, and access to large databases.…

Discusses the implementation of a software system that allows teachers to take advantage of large banks of questions in subject areas. Explains that this plan is the result of a 1981 court mandate to standardize learning outcomes. Follows the development of the system and choosing of the software. (MVL)

Discusses four applications of the microcomputer to the classroom: (1) a program listing of how to draw circles on the Apple II computers; (2) using a database to help write stories; (3) switching computers with others while writing stories to encourage creativity; and (4) a listing of a LOGO kaleidoscope program. (MVL)

Describes the design and development of the Mercury Electronic Library Project at Carnegie Mellon University that resulted in a library information system that provides access to the library's online catalog as well as to other databases. The distributed architecture of the system is explained, and future plans are discussed. (two references) (LRW)

Discusses reference management software that is used for the storage and retrieval of bibliographic and text files on personal computers. Uses in health sciences are reviewed, selection criteria are discussed, needs assessment is described, guidelines for selecting appropriate software are presented, and a list of software products is included.…

Describes the development and validation of a microcomputer software system that enhances undergraduate students' interests in becoming engineering graduate students. The development of a database with information on engineering graduate programs is discussed, and a model that matches individual and institutional needs using Southwell's Relaxation…

Computers are widely used in architectural research and teaching in U.S. schools of architecture. A survey of libraries serving these schools sought information on the emphasis placed on computers by the architectural curriculum, accessibility of computers to library staff, and accessibility of computers to library patrons. Survey results and…

Human-computer interface design concepts are used as the criteria for evaluating the benefits and shortcomings of San Diego State University Library's online catalog, INNOPAC (the PAC). Features discussed include integrated files, search capabilities, system availability, user interface, record-to-record links, boolean operations, subject access,…

Selected data drawn from national sources are statistically refined to construct a microcomputer-based model for monitoring academic quality and simulating the effects of management decisions. The method, illustrated for doctoral institutions here, can be used for colleges at any level, across institutions, and over time. (MSE)

Fifteen developments in technology that have laid the foundation for the current information-technology environment on college and university campuses are listed. They include both specific technological innovations and broader trends that make use of several technologies. (MSE)

Based on data collected over a period of 3 years (1987-1989) on the utilization of telecourses for college credit instruction, this report presents the over-all state of postsecondary uses of telecourses and examines current trends. It is noted that the study is limited to telecourses used to reach distant learners, and that personal computer…

The importance of using computers in a science education class is not limited to computer-assisted instruction (CAI). Computers may also be used as an educational strategy to improve overall learning and computer literacy in students. Research has shown an improvement in academic achievement in students using computers, as well as an increase in…

A comparison of the findings of an annual telephone survey of all 15,000 United States public school districts, which was conducted to update a computer database, with the results of the previous year's survey indicates that microcomputer use is growing very rapidly in schools. Since the first study, the number of schools using microcomputers has…

This collection of 17 conference presentations includes (1) "Project LOGO: A Study in Cognitive Enhancement Using Microcomputers," Henry Dobson; (2) "Tender Loving Care for Your Terrific Little Computer (TLC for your TLC)," Carol Dwyer and Karl Kelly; (3) "Teaching Micro-Literacy to Kids," Robert Gillingham; (5)…

A public policy seminar discussed how to match small towns and small computers. James K. Coyne, Special Assistant to the President and Director of the White House Office of Private Sector Initiatives, offered opening remarks and described a database system developed by his office to link organizations and communities with small computers to…