This issue focuses on the theme of successful distributed networking in educational computing, both in the United States and in foreign countries. Digital Equipment Corporation's External Research Program is described, and the use of computing to provide solutions in academics and administration for a wide range of users and equipment is…

The study compared computer assisted cognitive retraining of 47 patients with severe closed head injury with comparable noncomputerized treatment techniques. Results on neuropsychological tests did not support the increased effectiveness of the computer assisted cognitive therapy. (DB)

Describes the general workings of CompuServe, an international linkage and reference library service, and its FLEFO (Foreign Language Education Forum), which offers an electronic mail service, bulletin board, data libraries, and online conferencing. (CB)

Defines a set of algorithms providing the minimum amount of information necessary for computer generation of all forms in the German lexicon and detection of spelling errors, based on a method of compressing lexical information. (Author/CB)

Considers the application of neural network concepts to traditional natural language processing and demonstrates that neural network computing architecture can: (1) learn from actual spoken language; (2) observe rules of pronunciation; and (3) reproduce sounds from the patterns derived by its own processes. (Author/CB)

Examines the advantages of using desktop publishing in advanced writing classes. Explains how desktop publishing can spur creativity, call attention to the interaction between words and pictures, encourage the social dimensions of computing and composing, and provide students with practical skills. (MM)

To help parents select educational software that will supplement their child's schoolwork, purchasing guidelines are suggested. Two books for further reading are recommended. (JL)

Laser videodiscs should be a boon for teachers, administrators, and librarians. More extensive use of videodiscs is described and encouraged. An imaginary videodisc teaching unit is detailed and examples of current videodiscs, such as History Disquiz, are given. (JL)

Discusses and provides addresses of major computer software catalogs for classroom computers. IBM's "Software for Education" is detailed and informative. Other catalogs are from K-12 MicroMedia and Minnesota Educational Computing Consortium (MECC). Suggestions on purchase of hardware are briefly reviewed. (CJH)

Many administrators are signing contracts for software products that leave their institutions completely unprotected in the event of a default by the vendor. It is proper for a customer to include contractual provisions whereby they may gain legal access to the program source code. (MLW)

The article considers possible health education uses for microcomputer authoring systems in such areas as instructional, questioning, and feedback strategies; answer judging capabilities, frame displays and design, student recordkeeping, and performance tracking. Also considered are documentation/user support, technical quality, and ease of…

The article presents a brief, explanatory overview of the history and basic principles of teleprocessing and its application for health education. More technical information is provided on the related topics of data transmission and error checking schemes. (CB)

Focuses on the use of electronic mail for teaching and learning about social welfare policy processes and compares electronic mail as a simulation medium to more structured computer applications. (Author)

Argues that problems encountered when dictating are different from problems confronted when writing. Discusses two means of interacting with computers by means of voice. (JAD)

A survey of 212 secondary vocational agriculture teachers attempted to determine the current level and types of use of microcomputers in vocational agriculture programs nationwide. Sixty-two percent of the respondents indicated that they use a computer in their work. (CH)