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)

Describes applications of new technology to information handling on the basis of two trends--the miniaturization of electronic circuits and the shift from analog to digital modes of communication. Information technologies discussed are microcomputers, word processors, telecommunications, storage technologies, databases, videotex, and teletext.…

Discusses rise of videotex and teletext systems (delivery of graphic and textual information through electronic systems) in the United States, noting the role of libraries and librarians in providing these services. Corporate involvement, U.S. markets, library reference services, and major issues confronting growth are noted. Two references are…

Describes how the Stillwater (Minnesota) Independent School District uses microcomputers and an adaptation of a widely available software program to compute, during collective bargaining sessions, the costs to the district of proposed compensation packages for teachers and other employees. (RW)

Use of existing computer software within the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), offering the mechanism for an automatic management information system, is described. A historical database on students, staff, and costs was developed for eight Australian colleges. The system compiles and tabulates a wide range of reports. (MSE)

Describes LIBRUNAM, a complete system for the handling, processing, and retrieval of bibliographic information (mainly books), developed by the Direccion General de Bibliotecas of the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico. (Author)

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)

Details are provided of the development of a new library at Clarkson College. It was seen from the start that the new center needed to be viewed as the hub of a campus-wide system to provide integrated informational support for instructional, research, and administrative activities of the entire college. (MP)

With the aid of a federal grant for energy conservation, the Warren Consolidated School System (Michigan) will purchase a Margaux 6400 Building Management system to manage energy usage in 35 district buildings. Reasons for selecting the system and system capabilities are briefly discussed. (Author/JN)

The main types of computerized management information systems found in community health nursing are described. The state of the art and several case studies are presented. Ways such systems will operate in the future are explored. Finally, suggestions for better utilization of computer systems are discussed. (CT)

As computer systems play a larger role in student financial aid, the aid officer needs at least some expertise in computer programing. The advantages of the BASIC computer language for learning computer programing are discussed. The kinds of programs that can be written by the financial aid officer are identified. (MLW)

The first of two parts, this article provides an overview of the factors affecting continuing education and the emerging technologies that are changing the kinds of resources used to support and enhance instruction. Satellite and video technologies, teleconferencing, cable television, and computer-based systems are discussed. Thirty-six references…

Computer-assisted advisement provides solutions to the most fundamental of advising problems by giving reduced time in evaluating students for graduation, improved accuracy, ease in obtaining information, frequency in providing information, reduction of cost, and versatility. (MSE)

Due to the effects of reduced student enrollment, inflation, and competition, colleges need new methods to allocate resources. A management information system that provides a variety of management information data and that is useful in supporting program decisions is described. (JN)

Presenting an overview of the development of a community-based information and referral system, this article describes procedures designed to teach social service workers how to use the system to provide appropriate referrals and outlines a strategy for disseminating the system to other service agencies within the community. (LRA)