Based on an earlier user's guide to a minicomputer page layout system called PLA (Terrell, 1982), this guide is designed for use in the development and production of text-graphic materials for training relatively unskilled technicians to perform complex procedures. A microcomputer version of PLA, MicroPLA uses the Commodore 8032 microcomputer to…

The addition of the application and use of microcomputers to the academic programs at the University of Akron's College of Education was a gradual process. During the early 1970's, with acceptance by both the administration and the faculty and some budgeting support, a university-wide Computer Based Education Center was established, and the…

This article describes an approach to modifying science students' alternative conceptions of physical phenomena by means of diagnostic and remedial microcomputer programs designed in accord with a model of conceptual change. Current applications of microcomputers are discussed, including numerical work, drill and testing, tutorials, simulation,…

Punctuation serves as a system of visual markers that contradict previously generated false grammatical expectations. Word order conditions define the redundant or critical aspect of punctuation cues to visual display. Parsing (grouping) sentences into meaningful phrases and clauses aids language comprehension, and children who have reading…

The papers collected here were presented at a three-day conference which focused on the use of communications technology for educational/instructional purposes. Participants included representatives from elementary and secondary schools; two- and four-year colleges and universities; continuing education and lifelong learning; industry, labor, and…

Details a series of tests conducted by the Research Libraries Group, Inc., to evaluate IBM clones i.e., computers designed to use hardware and software originally intended for IBM microcomputers. The results of evaluations of several personal computers, using the criteria of performance, aesthetics, ergonomics, and documentation, are reported.…

Discusses access to information through merging computers and new communications technology and its influence in developing nations. Highlights include a case study of InterNet/LACRIP (Latin American Cancer Research Information Project), a microcomputer-based international network involving institutions in the United States and Latin America that…

Studied computer use in licensed preschool and day care programs in Dane County, Wisconsin. Results indicated substantial levels of frustration. Effective computer use presented administrators and teachers with challenges related to personnel, curriculum, and practical concerns. (BB)

Discusses the use of optical disk technology in online searching and compares three versions of the ERIC database currently available on optical disk in terms of hardware requirements, ease of installation, scope and cost of the system, search procedures, displaying and printing results, and documentation and user support. (CLB)

Describes the use of the English Natural Form Instruction (ENFI) computer conferencing system to teach language skills in college writing classes at Northern Virginia Community College. Highlights include local area networks; discourse processing; interactive writing; the teacher's role; textual analysis of writing by two classes; and other…

Explores how an existing program can be adapted for remote control. Compares the output on the screen of an Apple II computer with its equivalent on the braille display of the VersaBraille. Points out some of the advantages of using a data base as a customized information center. (CW)

An inhouse accounting program can increase the productivity and efficiency of the school business office. Discusses basic questions regarding software, hardware requirements, training, and obtaining staff support and cooperation. (MLF)

Summarizes six research studies relating to computers in education. The research areas include the use of computer-generated graphs in critical evaluation and in learning distance and velocity concepts, sex differences in graphing skills, student evaluation of courseware, career paths of women with technological education, and characteristics of…

Describes methods used to evaluate software for microcomputers in Japanese elementary and middle schools. Completion of an evaluation checklist by experienced teachers is described, the cluster analysis used is reviewed, and characteristics of available software are discussed and analyzed to assess their learning and teaching efficiency.…

The development of the Castleton State College faculty computer literacy training program is described. Early attempts at training focused on the technology, but lost sight of the psychological variables that served as impediments to participation in the program. The peer involvement project is described. (Author/ MLW)