This manual explains how to use the FAMULUS program package in a computing environment where most text is input through terminals and most files are stored on disks. Developed in the late 1960s by the Pacific Southwest Forest and Range Experiment Station of the United States Forest Service, FAMULUS was conceived as a personal documentation system…

In summer 1984, a study was conducted to assess the status of microcomputer applications in the public vocational-technical facilities of Michigan, Indiana, Minnesota, Illinois, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Mailing lists provided by the vocational education divisions of each state department of education were used to survey 705 individuals regarding…

Intended for use by the Computerized Documentation System (CDS), the Unesco version of ISIS (Integrated Set of Information Systems)--originally developed by the International Labour Organization--was developed in 1975 and named CDS/ISIS. This system has a comprehensive collection of programs for input, management, and output, running in batch or…

A 16-item evaluation form is presented to aid in selection of appropriate computerized game materials for preschool children. The form was derived from a 32-week-long study involving 66 children 3, 4, and 5 years of age who were allowed to play computer games during free play or work time while attending a modified Montessori preschool program. In…

Software for computer assisted instruction in writing (CAI/writing) can be described in terms of "generations." The earliest (because easiest) application of computers to writing instruction was in the area of drill and practice. By focusing on one or another element of basic skills, well-designed drill and practice software provides instruction…

The report reviews the implementation of computer programs in special education in the District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) and describes specific applications at the Prospect Learning Center, a special elementary school for moderately to severely learning disabled students. Goals for a 3-year project on computers in DCPS are listed. A brief…

One of 10 in a series on videotex, this promotional brochure discusses the enhancement of cable service systems that use videotex and teletext technologies. It explains the advantages of Canada's approach to videotex, which uses the standard called NAPLPS (North American Presentation Level Protocol Syntax), otherwise known in Canada as Telidon.…

This paper describes one academic's experiences in utilizing a database management system, dBase II, with an Apple IIe microcomputer for record keeping and reporting. Initial problems created by processing data by hand or by a central computer system are described, and the selection process for a microcomputer purchase and software package (dBase…

Before purchasing computer hardware, individuals must consider the costs associated with the setup and operation of a microcomputer system. Included among the initial costs of purchasing a computer are the costs of the computer, one or more disk drives, a monitor, and a printer as well as the costs of such optional peripheral devices as a plotter…

Refutes Seymour Papert's premises because they: (1) maintain that computer criticism goes through developmental stages; (2) overlook the fact that the computer's newness in education affects the way people speak of computers; and (3) deny the necessity that teaching LOGO, like other pedagogies, should be accountable to experimental research. (PS)

Agrees with Seymour Papert that conventional experimentation has shortcomings when used to study effects of educational programs. Cites three research methods that, in combination, can compensate for the shortcomings of both conventional research and the computer criticism suggested by Papert. (PS)

General guidelines for a process evaluation of software for a specific subject and grade include: (1) Specify instructional objectives and list desired software program characteristics; (2) Access and review descriptions of programs (information sources for math programs are listed); (3) Preview software; and (4) Compare and make purchase…

Computers and synthesizers are being used to create new sounds that cannot be played on traditional instruments. Computers and instructional software are also helping to teach students to compose music, to analyze scores, to read music, and to do ear training drills. (MLW)

Presents an annotated list of 40 software programs. Each entry includes publisher, address, hardware, requirement(s), grade level(s), and program description. A list of readings about astronomical computer programs is given. (DH)

Reviews: "ArithMagic (Counting, Addition, Subtraction)" which uses graphics to illustrate/review basic arithmetic concepts; "The Sweet Shop" which uses graphics (and a character called Mr. Jellybean) to teach arithmetic concepts; and "Math Magic," a monster-filled arcade game that teaches addition and subtraction.…