This introduction to a special report on telecommunications presents several compelling reasons why telecommunications is one of the most practical and beneficial applications of personal computer technology and briefly summarizes the other articles in this section. (MBR)

Issues related to the teaching of typing are discussed, focusing on the need for typing skills when using computers. Also compares use of the "QWERTY" to the Dvorak keyboards, considering the advantages and disadvantages of each. (JN)

Steps for developing a program to compute peak blood alcohol levels are offered. A review of the Diet Inventory Nutritional Experiences (DINE) System explores a computerized nutrition program. (DF)

BITNET is a growing computer network of increasing importance to colleges and universities, research institutions, and the EDUCOM organization. The current status of BITNET, examples of its use, connections to other networks, probable growth path, and the new Network Information Center at EDUCOM are discussed. (JN)

Describes a relatively inexpensive system which allows students in a digital control course hands-on experience in the implementation of control algorithms on a variety of processes. The system uses two computers, one for real time simulation of the process and the other for implementation of the digital control algorithms. (JN)

The declining cost of hardware and the growing availability of supporting accessories (peripherals) have contributed to growth in the use of computers in chemistry. Examples of such uses are provided. (JN)

A purchase order variable format in support of computerized book ordering/acquisitions process is proposed for libraries and vendors by Subcommittee U, Computerized Ordering of Books, and National Information Standards Organization. General format structure, record content, generalized schematic, examples, and descriptions of data elements are…

This brief report provides one teaching approach designed to help students and clinicians use the computing facilities available in their agencies to aid their clinical practice, and highlights issues central to this training. The teaching process involves using the computer as a tool, for identifying and operationalizing questions, analyzing data…

The paper describes a two-week summer course for gifted students which successfully develops mathematical program solving, promotes understanding of advanced mathematical concepts, and allows students to learn a great deal of programing. (CL)

The school bus alert monitor is a computerized school bus alert and warning sytem that notifies parents of school bus arrival via radio frequency technology. The system also has been shown to enhance the self esteem of disabled transportation users. (CL)

Describes how a 30,000 student institution of higher learning is installing a campus-wide telecommunications system supporting voice, data, and video applications. Objectives of the telecommunications program and guidelines used in its development are outlined. (JN)

Discusses communications technologies now being refined for nationwide introduction to allow educational institutions to share their database resources at greatly accelerated speeds and with increasing ease. (JN)

Studies of stereo vision guide research on how animals see and how computers might accomplish this human activity. Discusses a sequence of algorithms to first extract information from visual images and then to calculate the depths of objects in the three-dimensional world, concentrating on stereopsis (stereo vision). (JN)

An Advanced Manufacturing Laboratory (AML) has been established at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI). AML courses, course objectives, instructional strategies, student experiences in design and manufacturing, and AML equipment are discussed. Overall recommendations based on student and instructor experiences are also presented. (JN)

Two approaches to computer use instruction are applications (use of specific application software) and problem solving (developing thinking skills oriented toward using computers to solve problems). (SK)