Describes the development of the microcomputer-based educational software, DNAzoom, which was designed to introduce undergraduates in molecular biology to computer analysis of DNA protein sequences. Highlights include graphical presentation of data, the functional use of color, a menu-oriented interface, and students' evaluations of the software.…

Discusses the impact of computers on the art community. Topics discussed include merging technology with art, full color graphics on personal computers, commercial painting software, graphic design, visual flexibility, programing, the computer as an art medium unto itself, cost factors, and benefits to art instructors. (LRW)

Lists 27 suggestions for making cost-effective decisions when buying personal computers. Topics covered include physical comfort; modem speed; color graphics; institutional discounts; direct-order firms; brand names; replacing versus upgrading; expanding hard disk capacity; printers; software; wants versus needs; and RLIN (Research Libraries…

Reviews the development of authoring systems from those present in mainframe computers to the newest versions in desktop training systems. Advances in microcomputers and the corresponding authoring systems are described, programing languages are discussed, and computer-based instructional development that includes graphical user interfaces and…

Teaching methods have been developed and tested that encourage students to process information and refine their thinking skills. The information processing model is known as the Integrative Teaching Model. By combining the computer technology in the HyperCard application for data display and retrieval, instructional delivery of this teaching model…

This curriculum guide presents lessons for computer literacy instruction in the elementary grades. The first section of the guide includes 22 lessons on hardware, covering such topics as how computers work, keyboarding, word processing, and computer peripherals. The 13 lessons in the second section cover social topics related to the computer,…

This study focused on the cognitive conflicts experienced by young children in using software programs that provided them with tools to create and/or combine individual graphic elements into larger structures. Six 5-year-old children, none with prior computer experience, were observed using three programs--Kids at Work, Picture Perfect, and…

The differences between the media of books and computers lies partly in the way in which information is displayed, rather than in the content of the information itself. The term "legibility" denotes how specific physical characteristics of a display affect visual fatigue, reading speed, and ultimately comprehension. Some of these…

Ways in which various uses or applications of a microcomputer can help improve the image of a college or university department are discussed in this paper. The paper discusses applications such as instruction, word processing, management, programing, communications, statistics, and graphics, and audiences for these applications, such as department…

This survey of the administrative applications of microcomputers identifies word processing, database management, spreadsheet functions, and graphics as four areas in which microcomputer use will reduce repetition, improve cost efficiency, minimize paperwork, enhance filing and retrieval systems, and save time. This will allow administrators and…

The major intent of this project was to design microcomputer lessons utilizing the unique features of computers to teach a high school mathematics topic. After reviewing the literature, it was decided to write a series of three tutorial lessons for a class in high school trigonometry which would present the concepts of amplitude, period, phase…

Discusses the potential of using microcomputer-generated thematic maps as data presentation and research tools. Attempts to provide an understanding of map types used for research, the process of creating maps on microcomputers, and the capabilities of available software. Presents graphic images of five thematic maps types. (Author/ GEA)

Describes range of options and features in gradebook programs and reviews most popular and readily available software for organizing, calculating, and updating grades: Master Grades, EA Gradebook, Gradeaid, Grader, Graphic Gradebook, Classic Plus Gradekeeping System, Records, Gradecalc, Grade Master, Report Card, Electronic Gradebook for…

The first of two articles discusses the current status of desktop publishing, including some of its benefits and limitations. The second article compares and critiques both hardware and software currently available for the Macintosh and for MS-DOS microcomputers. A glossary of typographic terms is included. (CLB)

Presents author's view of how computer graphics produced in the classroom enhance mathematical concepts teaching. Specific concepts and related graphics presented include the convergence of power series and the Central Limit Theorem. Formal versus informal instruction, computer assisted instruction versus teaching, and requirements for future…