The difficulty many students have in solving complex problems stems not from a lack of mathematical skill but from an inability to visualize the problem. An appropriately-structured computer game may assist students in achieving this visualization and in solving problems better. A heuristic approach in programing one game is provided. (Author/JN)

Discusses advantages of computer assisted instruction (CAI) in a community college writing/reading curriculum. Using word processing software, students write reports, themes, and essays on the microcomputer. Other software is used for learning vocabulary, grammar, reading rate and comprehension. Includes problems to avoid to ensure success in CAI…

Discusses efforts to provide new services that publish information more rapidly, provide faster/easier access to information already published, and package information in forms that are used more easily and efficiently. Considers primary information, electronic publishing (including benefits/problems), secondary (indexing/abstracting) information…

Six teachers who won microcomputers in a contest sponsored by "Instructor" report on their first year with the new machines. Computer programs and related class activities are discussed. (PP)

Describes the current use and potential of the LOGO programing language in a variety of educational situations. (JL)

Computers have been misused in education for several reasons, including lack of high-quality software and of new content or instructional methodology. Examples of misuse include drill and practice and tutorial programs. Appropriate uses include programming, writing, access to databases, and simulations. Computers should complement, not replace,…

Suggestions are provided for college development offices interested in linking an office word processing system with the institution's main computer system. These include researching needs, leasing versus purchasing, obtaining equipment, and making the most of the system obtained. (MSE)

The promise of mainframe computers in the 1970s for management information systems (MIS) is largely unfulfilled, and newer office automation systems and data communication systems are designed to be responsive to MIS needs. The status of these innovations is briefly outlined. (MSE)

Contributions in mineral-deposit model formulation, geochemical exploration in glaciated and arid environments, analytical and sampling problems, and bibliographic research were made in symposia held and proceedings volumes published during 1982. Highlights of these symposia and proceedings and comments on trends in exploration geochemistry are…

Discusses use of computer programs in handling such library tasks as cataloging, inventory, and circulation. Reviews several programs and provides a listing of available library software. These include library catalog programs, circulation/overdues programs, and inventory control. (JN)

Explores the history of robotics and its effects upon the manufacturing industry. Topics include robots' capabilities and limitations, the factory of the future, displacement of the workforce, and implications for management and labor. (SK)

Examines the implications of word processing technology for the English teacher. (JL)

Word processing may change how people learn to write. The use of a word processor to teach a sixth grader with writing problems showed how the machine can alleviate problems involving writing with pencil and paper, correcting errors, evaluating and revising, and producing a good-looking text. (RW)

Predicts that the availability of computers and demands for competency testing could drastically alter the character and uses of standardized testing by the end of the century. Warns administrators to begin preparing for the future in order to prevent misuse of the new computer capabilities. (PGD)

In February 1983, Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District in California's Silicon Valley will link its school computer to privately owned microcomputers in students' homes. Funded by a $75,000 grant from the Atari Foundation, the link will initially help students to match their school records with college admissions requirements. (RW)