A basic understanding of computer hardware, software, and internal workings is important before selecting a computer. A brief introduction to elements of the computer is offered. (DF)

More than a third of park and recreation agencies in a 1983 survey reported use of microcomputers. This article explores types of software and hardware favored in the recreation profession. Work processing, budgeting, registration, and inventory are some of the applications used by this profession. (DF)

Discusses the characteristics of information retrieval software and examines several capabilities of two systems, SIRE and ZyINDEX--creating a database, indexing the database, maintaining the database, and searching the database. Each system's strengths and weaknesses in bibliographic record and full text applications are analyzed. A glossary is…

Three activities with Knuth functions are discussed and illustrated, with sample computer programs listed. (MNS)

Describes five computer programs: four simulations of genetic and physical mapping experiments and one interactive learning program on the genetic coding mechanism. The programs were originally written in BASIC for the VAX-11/750 V.3. mainframe computer and have been translated into Applesoft BASIC for Apple IIe microcomputers. (JN)

A report on the use of microcomputers is summarized, with recommendations on algorithms and procedures, the value of short programs, programs designed for general distribution, mathematical utilities, and developments in hardware. (MNS)

Addresses the question of what parents can do to help their children get a better education by using computers at home. The age span covered ranges from preschool to high school. Sources of educational software catalogs and list of educational computing magazines with applicability to home use are included. (JN)

Presents experiences with, and recommendations for, choosing a diet analysis system for use in a high school or college classroom. Software considerations, hardware considerations, and decisions based on relationship between these considerations are addressed. (JN)

Some background information and guidelines on computer generation of random numbers is presented. Sections concern ways of generating random numbers and descriptions of statistical tests. (MNS)

Presented is a three-hour instrumental analysis experiment which allows study of software data-handling methods. These methods include sampling, boxcar averaging, smoothing, ensemble averaging, and digital filtering. Use of the program should provide students with a better idea of advantages and disadvantages of using such software data-handling…

Describes an exercise which uses a computer program (written for Commodore 64 microcomputers) that accepts data obtained from identifying bacteria, calculates similarity coefficients, and performs single linkage cluster analysis. Includes a program for simulating bacterial cultures for students who should not handle pathogenic microorganisms. (JN)

Presents a program listing and asks students what the program does. Also challenges them to draw a heart in LOGO (listing is included) and to match LOGO repeat statements with eight geometric shapes. Suggests using a power strip to turn off all microcomputers and monitors in the classroom. (JN)

Hardware and software requirements for setting up a microcomputer-based laboratory for an undergraduate psychology course in research methodology are discussed. (Author/RM)

Presents a concept of end-user query language with facilities for expressing relationships between objects kept in a database. The idea of nesting these features in typical document query language is shown. Examples of usage of these new facilities are included. (Author/MBR)

Discusses the market for computer-based training (CBT) programs, the distribution and marketing of these programs, why CBT is different from other training products for corporate customers, evaluating CBT programs, the competition between CBT and video, and corporations wanting customized training programs. (CT)