Before purchasing a specific microcomputer, school districts should consider what types of software applications are desired, whether the micro is capable of being upgraded, which software and operating systems are supported by the micro at present, and how many of the particular model are currently operating. Hardware and software are evaluated.…

Computer literacy for school business managers means knowing what tasks computers can perform to assist in the management process; understanding that the logical steps in a particular analysis depend on the business manager, not the computer; and knowing how and when to select the appropriate software package. (MLF)

Describes the management advantages computers can bring to small school districts. Advises purchasers to select quality software first, then purchase a computer that can handle the software. (MLF)

Discusses current uses of microcomputers in schools. Also provides a rationale for educational computing based on economics, computer literacy, and equality of opportunity needs. Needs of educators, fears of educational computing, computer literacy in science education, and training science teachers to use computers are also discussed. (JN)

Reports that microcomputer use will help six year-old children solve some types of problems better but will not improve their general learning and thinking abilities. Logo programing resulted in higher creativity scores and in children's ability to monitor their own thinking, but revolutionary changes in cognitive development were not found. (DH)

Discusses some of the major genetic information processes which may be modeled by computer program string manipulation, focusing on replication and transcription. Also discusses instructional applications of using string models. (JN)

Describes use of PFS: File, a database management program for microcomputers that can be effectively utilized in periodical management, at the Apple Computer Library. The menu, format of the forms, checking in periodicals and listing missing issues, updating, reports, the periodical catalog, and helpful information are highlighted. Examples are…

Reports on computer-assisted instruction materials for use in special education settings (readiness level, reading, math, home and school, remedial/secondary, career/vocational education, programing/computer literacy, adaptive communication devices); professional application software (authoring systems, administration, testing); and software…

Discusses the basic design and special features of robotic dialing systems that are programmed to make calls to parents of truant students and presents detailed information on seven currently available self-dialing attendance systems. (MBR)

Describes a screening device, the Barclay Early Childhood Skill Assessment System (BECSAS), which uses teacher, child, and parent input and spells out possible intervention strategies based on specific deficits. Reports the use of the BECSAS to analyze the relationship between parent education level and student skill deficits. (JAC)

Describes use of selective dissemination of information (SDI) feature on DIALOG at Sandia Technical Library to produce bulletin announcing library acquisitions of technical reports in microfiche. Microfiche acquisition, developing profile, assembling profile output, costs, and suggestions for improvement are highlighted. Examples of SDI profiles…

Outlines basic choices available in on-screen windowing systems which create separate areas or boxes on microcomputer display screens to simplify control of traditional computer applications. Systems described include Visicorp's Visi On, Microsoft Windows, Digital Research's Concurrent DOS, Quarterdeck's DesQ, Structured Systems' Window Master,…

Discusses use of microcomputers for grading, simulating laboratory experiments, data collection, and for communicating with students. Database systems, word processing, and an electronic spreadsheet program are also considered. Programing tips for several of these areas are included. (JN)

Emory University, Georgia, has a space and equipment database management system that maintains inventories and generates reports. (MLF)

Presented is an annotated list of 24 references on the LOGO programing language. The information provided is intended for classroom teachers and for researchers. Topics include use of the language in classroom situations, evaluation of a LOGO training program, the educational utility of LOGO, and others. (JN)