Highlights Pennsylvania Department of Education's initiatives related to school improvement and use of technology in education. These include computer literacy, financial aid to schools for innovative classroom projects, electronic mail services, teleconferencing, and technological applications within the department itself (such as word processing…

A compromise between off-the-shelf and tailor-made financial assessment programs for computer use is the modeling system called Education Financial Planning Model (EFPM) developed by EDUCOM. Potential advantages and problems are examined, and potential for further development and uses is discussed. (MSE)

Describes and evaluates the computerized training information system in use at New England Telephone Company. The system consists of a set of training records stored in four databases which can be used for summarizing and forecasting training course information. (JJD)

Describes the Student Scheduling and Tracking System (SSTS), which is a computerized student record database used in Davidson High School in Mobile, Alabama. The microcomputer-based system is used in report card preparation, student scheduling, and maintaining current student records. (JJD)

A linear photodiode array is used as the photodetector element in a new ultraviolet-visible detection system for high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Using a computer network, the system processes eight different chromatographic signals simultaneously in real-time and acquires spectra manually/automatically. Applications in fast HPLC…

With the change to simpler computers, training the large number of individuals without electronics backgrounds who use/service them became cost prohibitive. However, computer-assisted instruction, coupled with an interactive videodisc, has been found useful in delivering quality instruction cost effectively at a large number of widely dispersed…

Describes computer grading system providing/storing scores and giving feedback to instructors on how students are performing on a day-to-day basis and how they are handling course concepts. Focuses on the hardware and software of this efficient computerized grading package, which can be used with classes of 250 students (or larger). (Author/JN)

Management and staff resistance to computer use often comes from anxiety over ignorance of computers and fear of replacement by machines. Such resistance can be overcome with practice, persistence, and an element of humility. (MSE)

Computerization of custodial services can save school administrators time and money. Four basic reports that should be developed from microcomputer software packages are outlined. (MLF)

Mathematical techniques used to solve geological problems are briefly discussed (including comments on use of geostatistics). Highlights of conferences/meetings and conference papers in mathematical geology are also provided. (JN)

Discusses the use of microcomputers and software as problem-solving tools, including comments on "TK! Solver," automatic problem-solving program (reviewed in detail on pp.84-86 in this same issue). Also discusses problem-solving approaches to bridge the disciplines, such as music/physics, junior high science/mathematics (genetics),…

Discusses the growing use of computers in counseling, testing, and guidance. Examines potential ethical problems focusing on confidentiality of client data and the use of computer-assisted testing. Outlines principles for ethical use of computer applications emphasizing the need for counselor intervention. (Author/RC)

Discusses the new word processing capability afforded schools of journalism through advances made in computers. (HOD)

Report of a study of strategic planning, conducted by EDUCOM, a consortium of colleges and universities engaged in sharing educational technology applications, portrays information processing ideas, goals, and plans at 10 innovative colleges and universities. (Author/JJD)

Discusses advantages of using computer-assisted instruction in a college general chemistry course. Advantages include using programs which generate random equations with double arrows (equilibrium systems) or generate alkane structural formula, asking for the correct IUPAC name of the structure. (Author/JN)