Using listening check procedures, only 2 of 21 staff members at a school for the hearing impaired reliably and accurately rated the performance of hearing aids, suggesting that educators of the hearing impaired are inadequately prepared to evaluate hearing aid performance and that a more objective means of assessment is needed. (Author/CB)

A new sliding insulated panel reduces window heat loss up to 86 percent, and infiltration 60-90 percent, paying for itself in 3-9 years. This article discusses the panel's use and testing in the upper Midwest, reporting both technical characteristics and users' reactions. (MCG)

Discusses major features of microcomputers (word length, memory, size, disk size and capacity, central processing unit speed, peripherals, software) and provides descriptions of 19 models. Comparative analysis on basis of cost, software support, machine capacity, storage capacity, and types of peripherals is presented. A 173-item bibliography is…

Description of the Kurzweil Reading Machine, which uses a special camera and computer to transform printed matter into synthetic speech; includes reading and sound production, machine operation, adjusting to different typefaces, and limitations. Review of the portable reading aid for the partially sighted, Viewscan, discusses characteristics,…

Vocational agriculture teachers are encouraged to evaluate curriculum offerings, the new trends in business and industry, and develop a master tool purchase and replacement plan over a 3- to 5-year period. (HD)

Article deals with the problems of automated education. (ML)

Points out the advantages and disadvantages of the four ways to design and use a student information system: (1) manual files, (2) use of a computer located in the school building, (3) shared use of a larger computer, and (4) use of a commercial service bureau. (Author/MLF)

Explores how to avoid common pitfalls when schools purchase computer equipment. Purchasing tips are provided in the areas of choosing multiple platforms, buying the cheapest model available, choosing a proprietary design, falling for untested technology, purchasing systems that are not upgradable, ignoring extended warranties, and failing to plan…

Describes a roofing disaster and states the necessity for total uncompromising control of the entire roofing process: (1) select the best system; (2) design and write tight specifications; (3) ensure that the system is correctly installed; and (4) maintain the roof properly. (MLF)

Available computer hardware, software, and computer use strategies that can facilitate bibliographic management for the individual researcher are discussed. (MSE)

Equipment to allow safe transportation of disabled children is reviewed. Such equipment includes infant car seats, child safety seats, safety vests, and accommodations for children in casts and/or braces. Five principles for evaluation and selection of safe seating options are given as are safety rules and information on standards and resources.…

The use of continuous discourse tracking to evaluate sensory prostheses for the hearing impaired was assessed in terms of the strategies used by the talker and responses elicited from the listener. Listeners showed small but significant differences in response patterns. Much larger differences were observed in the pattern of correction strategies…