Revolutionary developments in collecting and analyzing data for use in improving curriculum and instruction at the local level are now possible with the advent of low-cost computers. The basic purposes and approaches of assessment methodologies must be refocused for local application. (LMO)

This article describes 6 of the 17 school computer projects awarded $600,000 in microcomputer equipment and software in the "Wheels for the Mind" program established by Apple Education Affairs. Apple would provide advanced courses for rural schools, set up an intercultural network, develop reasoning skills, train teachers, and create…

The Northwestern Online Total Integrated System (NOTIS) is a comprehensive library materials management system that integrates acquisitions, serials control, cataloging, authority control, database management, circulation, and the online public catalog. All modules of the NOTIS software package access a single bibliographic record through…

Discusses three trends in computer-oriented chemistry instruction: (1) availability of interfaces to integrate computers with experiments; (2) impact of the development of higher resolution graphics and greater memory capacity; and (3) role of videodisc technology on computer assisted instruction. Includes program listings for auto-titration and…

A gas chromatography (GC) mass spectroscopy (MS) system recently developed by Hewlett-Packard (HP-5987 GC/MS/Data System) is described, illustrating the technological advances that have been achieved with the system. Examples of the data processing and output process are provided to demonstrate the capabilities and application of the system to…

Discusses the professional purchasing administrator's most common areas of responsibility: (1) staffing the department, (2) maintaining professional objectivity in vendor relationships, (3) following bidding policies, (4) receiving user input and feedback, and (5) seeking local equipment service and maintenance. (MLF)

School managers can make the difference in a successfully automated school office. Before any equipment is considered, administrators need to identify problems, set goals, and select the best alternative. (MLF)

Concepts and symbols of the language of information techology are examined, including the concept of a technological revolution, a literacy crisis, the presumption of a moral and ethical dilemma, orientation toward the future, the promise of productivity, the image of an elite using an unintelligible language, and the symbol of the infallible…

Examines capabilities of the computer as a tool for bibliographic instruction; how librarians can utilize the computers; and the effects of microcomputers on bibliographic instruction librarians. Three approaches to writing computer-assisted instruction (CAI) programs (CAI authoring system, special purpose CAI language, general purpose computer…

Discusses advantages of a centralized school district plan for computer utilization at building, district, and state-federal level, and reviews categories of information required for computer applications--staff personnel, accounting, pupil records, classroom/instruction, and administrative support services--by outlining each category to indicate…

Looks at three areas in which college administrators should ensure that computers are available for faculty use (i.e., instruction, personal scholarship, and administrative tasks). Suggests ways of overcoming faculty resistance to computers and steps in a carefully planned and managed process of improving computer literacy. (DMM)

This annual review article examines the progress made and pitfalls encountered by the automated library system marketplace during calendar year 1984. Total marketplace activity is represented by events that occurred in four segments: turnkey systems, library-developed software, software designed to run on microcomputers, and production of…

Explores solutions to the current growth in engineering student enrollments and related faculty shortages. Nine potentially acceptable instructional changes are discussed. They include: increasing lecture class size; television and video tapes; computer-based education; using graduate/undergraduate students; employing retired/part-time faculty;…

Outlines and discusses skills science teachers need to use computing in their teaching effectively. Also discusses how pre- and in-service science teachers can acquire such skills, considering the development of pre-/in-service materials, delivery of training, and which research, development, and evaluation efforts should guide decisions about…

Evaluates the Measurement Module (TEL-Atomic, Incorporated), a real time data capture and display instrument which (according to the manufacturer) was designed primarily for use in demonstrations. Includes comments on the module's specifications and features, software, documentation, and student laboratory use. The module is compatible with Apple…