Discusses the advantages and disadvantages of prepackaged software programs and custom-developed software programs, along with the use of microcomputers. (MD)

Provides examples of software for the sciences, including: packages for pathology/toxicology laboratories (costing over $15,000), DNA sequencing, and data acquisition/analysis; general-purpose software for scientific uses; and "custom" packages, including a program to maintain a listing of "Escherichia coli" strains and a…

Presents an outline for the ideal computer system for schools from a management point of view. Includes a discussion of new trends in the design and implementation of computerized management systems. (MD)

Presents offline logic activities to extend concepts in "Rocky's Boots." Activities focus on: (1) building logic circuits; (2) recognizing logic in language; (3) playing logic games; and (4) testing logic circuits. Detailed procedures accompanied by illustrative examples are included. (JN)

The article argues that even extremely young children can be taught to program microcomputers from their very first contact. A teaching strategy is proposed, having more in common with the teaching of language than with the more traditional didactic-reinforcement cycle commonly employed in the text books. (Author/CL)

Discussion of the acquisition of small computer systems (microcomputers and software) by libraries for their own use covers the decision-making process, five options available for acquiring software, stand-alone microcomputer packages for library housekeeping, and national bibliographic control of computer software. Twenty-six references are…

Addresses uses and benefits ERIC receives from MICROsearch, a program for searching downloaded portions of the ERIC database on floppy disks. Use of MICROsearch as a reference tool and for teaching online searching is described, and its limitations and benefits to the online industry are discussed. (MBR)

A review of the technological and psychological literature suggests the existence of two psychological constructs that severely impact on teachers' use of new technology, especially computers: Technophobia and Computerphobia. The review explores some suggestions for avoiding, overcoming and general coping with these problems by both the teachers…

Introduces three articles that identify various types of database management programs, discuss their basic features and some typical applications and present a table of the leading programs available; profile several companies that are utilizing database management systems; and illustrate several unusual home applications for hobbyists. (MBR)

Identifies essential database management terminology and groups the various types of database management programs into three basic categories for discussion of basic features, typical applications, and costs. A table of the leading programs available in each category includes the manufacturer's name and address, hardware requirements, and price…

Provides examples of nested subroutines, focusing on the Gaussian quadrature function and test program (program listings included). Nested subroutines, features of the Gaussian quadrature, and when not to use it are considered. (JN)

Includes two reviews of computer software that may serve the speech communication professional: Fast Graphs and PC-File III. (PD)

Seven software programs for spelling instruction are reviewed, and the author notes that such programs use creative ways to reduce the drudgery of rote memorization. Programs also incorporate graphics, recordkeeping, initial sound emphasis, rules of syllabication, sight work instruction, and speech synthesizers. (CL)

The process of evaluating computer software is discussed, and a procedure is described which focuses upon ease of use, program content, instructional design and kind of incentive, value conflicts, input/output capacity, teacher management options, built-in authoring systems, and special learning needs. (CL)

Factors involved in deciding about commercial software for classroom use include the instructional, content, and technical characteristics of the software package. The importance of previewing software and the use of software with students as a part of the evaluation process are also to be discussed. (Author/CL)