Two related problems are discussed: developing a methodology which (1) will not require full commitment of a local education agency to new techniques which may be ineffective in local settings and (2) will allow graceful abandonment of a new technology that may be proved ineffective. An example is discussed. (CTM)

Proprietary software available to the institutional researcher is discussed. It is suggested that as more institutions use proprietary software, the institutional researcher may find that varying levels of involvement in the process of evaluating and acquiring such software can result in the availability of more useful facilities. (Author/SF)

Advancements and trends in administrative computing are discussed and their implications for management are examined. Trends in software and hardware development as well as cost and capability are also investigated. Sources of information on computer development, including publications and organizations, are listed. (Author/SF)

Discusses some methodology for and problems inherent in analyzing economic costs of educational institutions and presents findings from cost studies of higher education institutions of two types: (1) a regional open university with central management offices, and state organizations through which students can enroll in televised credit courses,…

Describes an evaluation model which employs available data for curriculum evaluation; discusses three modes for its use; and reports on tests of the model. Its components are: enrollment characteristics, cost analysis, instructional conditions, student success, and utilization of instructional space. Tables illustrate the model. (MB)

A Rochester Institute of Technology (New York) program costing model designed to reflect costs more accurately allocates indirect costs according to salaries and wages, modified total direct costs, square footage of space used, credit hours, and student and faculty full-time equivalents. It allows administrators to make relative value judgments…

Describes "The Electric Library" (TM), a database (which can be searched via an Internet connection) designed to assist schools, librarians, and parents with information retrieval. Discusses technical and logistical benefits, the problem of selected and limited resources, and cost issues. Provides a sample debate topic exercise using "The Electric…

Total Quality Management is being implemented in American and British schools to improve educational outcomes. The 14 points of Deming's quality model and Porter's models of competition and drivers of cost provide a systematic, structured template to promote educational excellence and meet the demands of social, political, and economic forces.…

Capability is an expert system designed to support the process of compiling portfolios for competence-based assessment, particularly accreditation of prior leaning. The system was designed to provide cost effective management, consistency of rigor, support for tutors in accreditation workshops, and a structured approach to counseling. Outlines…

This article argues that while small colleges appear to be poorly positioned to be technology leaders, they have opportunities to distinguish themselves through focused applications of information technology resources in support of their missions. Costs, risks, and benefits of taking a leadership role in technology are discussed. (Author/MSE)

Several issues in college student mobility between Japan and other member countries of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) are examined, including the role of organized regional mobility in various areas of the world, curriculum development to meet the needs of international students, and the need for more analysis of…

Discusses educational benefits, logistical considerations, and inexpensive techniques for creating and facilitating a student-run multimedia publishing operation in the school media center. Checklists are provided for overall equipment needs and for grouping technologies with related functions into smaller "minicenters." A sample student…

Provides advice to child care center directors on purchasing the center's furniture. Contains a series of questions that directors should ask related to purchasing furniture, based on advice from manufacturers and dealers. Summarizes the key factors needed to consider when purchasing classroom furniture and includes tips on buying from catalogs…

Outlines how Compact Disc-interactive (CD-i)--software that looks like a CD-ROM but operates independently using a television set--can be used in elementary, secondary, and vocational education. Discusses the cost effectiveness of CD-i and compares costs and operational issues with CD-ROM. Describes special features of one CD-i program,…

Includes three articles that debate whether interlibrary loan (ILL) is the best way to get public library patrons what they need. Highlights include return on investment; funding; alternatives to ILL, including purchase on demand and online full-text databases; cost effectiveness; and the advantages of patron-initiated ILL through interconnected…