Provides criteria for selection of microcomputer communications software for asynchronous (serial) communication and for communication with host computers. The following features are discussed: (1) communication options; (2) transmitting data; (3) receiving data; (4) filtering; (5) translating; (6) special features; and (7) general features such…

Teens all over the United States and in many other countries are using microcomputers to "conference" on a daily basis. The teenagers use their electronic message systems to discuss many topics, including programing tips, global politics, and philosophy. These computer bulletin boards are preparing teenagers for their future business…

The Handicapped Educational Exchange, a microcomputer-based electronic mail system, acts as a clearinghouse for information on the use of technology to aid the handicapped and serves as a communication medium for hearing impaired persons. Procedures for using the system are described. (CL)

The digest answers basic questions about using microcomputers for professional development in special education. Use of the microcomputer as a self-contained unit is described and the types of information available on diskette from the ERIC Clearinghouse on Information Resources are considered. The microcomputer's application in networking is…

This fact sheet offers basic instructions on connecting to the ERIC database for individuals who own or have access to a microcomputer and are familiar with ERIC and how to search it through a database terminal. Software, hardware, and telephone line components necesary to make a microcomputer act as a database terminal are outlined. The…

Teachers are initiating computer exchanges between schools to encourage communication. Without visual clues and body language to go by, words and word skills are the only basis of communication. Projects vary from neighboring school communication to multistate and international projects. Suggestions for starting a program are included. (MT)

"Learning Link," a computer network in New Haven, Connecticut, connects three elementary schools with a focus on student-to-student learning via computer communications. At least two schools will be linked with schools in two other towns during the second year of the program. (MLF)

Describes features of two computer programs, Z-Term--The Professional, or Z-Pro, and Transcend, to demonstrate that telecommunications software can greatly expand the capabilities of a microcomputer. (MBR)

Provides an introduction to the use of communications software for remote access between microcomputers. Areas discussed include hardware requirements for these applications, software features that should be considered, security issues, and some disadvantages of remote control software. A directory of remote control software packages is provided.…

The nature of many computerized community bulletin boards is described. A system called Communitree is profiled as a version with many distinct advantages over generic bulletin board systems. It is felt that their strong points are carefully orchestrated details, and their weak points are intelligent compromises. (MP)

This article describes the role of microcomputers as communication devices in evaluation research. The capabilities of two new international computer networks, SocNet and PoliNet, are described to illustrate how the evaluation research community can begin to adapt to this alternative mode of professional communication. (BS)

Presents programs for creating animated characters (Atari), random sentences (Logo), and making a triangle (TRS-80 Level III Basic), and suggestions for creative writing and comparison shopping for computers/software. Also includes "Modems for Micros: Your Computer Can Talk on the Phone" (Bill Chalgren) on telecommunications capabilities of…

Synthesizes issues covered at a conference on microelectronics: production, productivity, and employment; social implications; market mechanisms v government intervention; the role of national governments; data protection laws; and cultural pollution. (SW)

This digest describes how to use a microcomputer as a terminal to access ERIC online. Hardware and software requirements are explained, configuring the software is described, and basic requirements for specific microcomputers are listed. One diagram is included. (EW)

Summary of the findings of a critical overview of more than 200 microcomputer programs using PC-DOS/MS-DOS for online information management discusses software for telecommunications, conversion/reformatting, storage and retrieval of text information, and word processing. (6 references) (MES)