To assess the performance characteristics of synthetic and leather basketballs, individuals were asked to discriminate perceptually between the leather and synthetic basketballs under four treatment conditions. Rebound characteristics on five playing surfaces were measured. Leather basketballs rebounded significantly higher; no significant…

Examines 14 preprogramed, microprocessor-based learning aids (Electronic Learning Machine, Digitor Skillmaster, Versator, Alphamaster, Lesson One, Speak and Spell, Quiz Wiz, Charlie, Rainbow, Children's Discovery System, System 80, Big Trak, Odyssey 2, Teach and Learn Computer), providing teacher commentary and product information (manufacturer,…

Documentation of author's personal experience in the purchasing of a microcomputer discusses background learning, the purchase decision, needs assessment, computer literacy, general information on microcomputers, the situation assessment, and the final check. (EJS)

Identifies and describes the major areas of videodisc technology; discusses the operation, reliability, storage capacities, and applications of two types of laser systems; and illustrates the versatility of the optical digital disc through a description of its ability to digitize large bodies of data. Included are six figures and three tables.…

Analyzes the language and rhetoric of persuasive discourse as employed in advertising. Uses a selection of bank advertisements as a corpus, identifying and discussing four basic models of discourse. The discussion focuses on the rhetorical devices that characterize each type of text. (MES)

Describes and compares the features, performance capabilities, specifications, and available options for a number of recently-marketed microcomputers, including the Apple II Plus, the Atari 800, the Commodore PET 400 and CBM 8000, and the Radio Shack TRS 80 Model III. (JL)

Describes the software modules produced by Texas Instruments for use with the TI-99/4A home computer. Among the modules described are: Personal Real Estate, Programing Aids, Home Financial Decisions, Music Maker, Weight Control and Nutrition, Early Learning Fun, and Tax/Investment Record Keeping. (JL)

Gerald Scott's favorable evaluation of the foamed polyurethane roofing system is based on experiences with 55 buildings at Texas A & M. Michael Kinzer, an architect at Colorado State University, disagrees and claims that the system is difficult to install and maintain, and the cost prohibitive. (MLF)

Automatic metering devices prevent waste and overuse of cleaning concentrates. (Author/MLF)

A discussion of savings of water and hot water heating fuel and an appropriate means of choosing the right products. (Author/MLF)

The Annual Plant Planning and Purchasing Directory lists more than 1,700 companies that provide products and services to educational institutions, and has a list of Professional Consultants--architects and engineers experienced in school and college work. (Author/MLF)

Provides information on Spanish-language programs, including the programs' intents, contents, methodology, and means of evaluation. An overall assessment and recommendations are provided for each program. (IRT)

A Colorado school district chose self-testing, self-diagnostic emergency lighting equipment, specially designed to monitor all phases of an emergency lighting unit's operation and performance. (MLF)

"Tests in Print IV" is a two-volume comprehensive master index of commercially published separate test titles in print that are available for purchase and use. There are over 3,000 entries, the majority of which originated in the United States. It is an invaluable resource for English-speaking test users. (SLD)

Voluntary negotiation is a way for parties to school disputes to take control of both the process of dispute settlement and its solutions. A software package, "Negotiator Pro," synthesizes the theory and practice incorporated in 30 books on negotiation. The software helps develop and organize a negotiation plan and a profile of the other…