Reviews the major factors media specialists must consider in evaluating instructional software for microcomputers, stresses the importance of staff use of instructional software as a selection criterion, outlines the role of community support in implementing instructional computing, and recommends several periodicals as sources of information on…

Discusses the role and use of microcomputers in scientific research, from monitoring instruments to controlling experimental processes. Included are descriptions of a computer-controlled protein sequencer and gene synthesizer, and microcomputer uses in medicine, physiology, biochemistry, and geology. (JN)

This series of five articles discusses minimizing computer failure; a national software clearinghouse for educational programs; Apple Software with a Purpose; a student-run word processing center at Jefferson College in Missouri; Wisconsin Technical School of the Air; vocational courses delivered by broadcast and cable television; and the delivery…

Discusses uses of calculators and microcomputers in mathematics education with particular reference to their impact on the teaching and learning of mathematics in Hong Kong schools. Indicates that teacher training in software design and production is essential because of the lack of adequate, well-designed mathematics software. (Author/JN)

Intended for those who are introducing computers into the classroom and those who need help with curriculum development in this area, this article explains key ingredients for successful coordination: identify interested personnel, start small, shop around, assess space available, avoid exclusivity, involve faculty, become a resource, and plan…

Discusses changes in politics, industry, consumer buying, and commerce resulting from the technological implementation of information handling and describes the problems and successes of such videotex systems as the British Broadcasting Corporation's CEEFAX and the British Post Office's Prestel. (RBF)

Highlights some of the more significant trends in communications systems and technology, and predicts that the social and educational impact of such changes will be dramatic, with communications becoming more personalized and specialized, and electronics finding its way into nearly all aspects of everyday life. (Author/CHC)

Reviews the prerequisite knowledge chemistry students need before a thorough understanding of chemical equilibrium can be achieved. Outlines two microcomputer programs developed to enhance and consolidate students' understanding of chemical equilibria. Includes a sample run and student worksheet. (DS)

This article discusses the advantages of multimedia materials as reference tools. Multimedia reference CD-ROMs contain huge amounts of information, and they present it in a very attractive way that motivates students to learn. The article provides an annotated list of subject-specific CD-ROMs, including ordering information. (SM)

Forty developmentally delayed and 40 non-delayed kindergarten children completed an alphabet matching task and a spelling task using 2 different computer input devices: a traditional computer keyboard and a touch-sensitive computer screen. The touch-sensitive screen generally improved the performance of both groups. (Author/JDD)

Describes a prototype automated collection analysis system developed at OCLC that allows a library to compare its collection with both predefined and evaluator defined peer groups. Eight library applications for such comparisons are listed, and the system design goals and areas needing further development are discussed. (five references)…

Describes a software evaluation program being initiated by the National Resource for Computers in Life Science Education (NRCLSE) that will provide software authors with feedback as well as provide users with information. Peer critiques which will address content and instructional design are explained, and evaluation guidelines are outlined. (five…

Discussion of the evaluation of educational software highlights two evaluation methods: (1) the York Educational Software Evaluation Scales (YESES), a criterion-based evaluation, and (2) a field-testing approach developed at York University. Guidelines for the field-testing approach include an emphasis on the observation of students. (22…

Discussion of courseware for use with microcomputers focuses on criteria for selecting the appropriate authoring tool. Criteria are specified from the perspective of: (1) the content specialist or instructor; (2) the instructional designer or analyst; (3) the programer; and (4) the administrator of the instructional software. (42 references) (LRW)

Discusses the growing importance of the use of Graphic User Interfaces (GUIs) with microcomputers and online services. Highlights include the development of graphics interfacing with microcomputers; CD-ROM databases; an evaluation of HyperCard as a potential interface to electronic mail and online commercial databases; and future possibilities.…