The interconnection between personal computers and other personal, mini, or mainframe computer systems is discussed. The following topics relevant to college personnel are addressed: hardware techniques for tying computers together, advantages and disadvantages of available software, the prospects for sophisticated micro/mainframe links with major…

This document describes how computer assisted instruction and word processing can combine the systematic coverage of a writing class with the individualization of a writing workshop. Ways to revise computer programs for use in a writing course are reviewed and currently available relevant programs are detailed. The act of word processing itself is…

Designed to help institutions considering library automation, this report describes the adoption, installation, and use of the Virginia Tech Library System (VTLS) at Ohio University. The report includes information on: (1) a task force created at Ohio University in 1978 to explore an automated circulation system; (2) installation and tape loading…

These three volumes list and describe a total of 65 new educational software products. The lists are the result of February and September 1988 polls of 10 computer coordinators from large educational software preview centers and evaluation agencies, who were asked to identify new products they had seen which, in their professional opinion, were…

This paper demonstrates the importance of effective planning when using database application programs in exceptional education programs, to more efficiently track students' performance, keep vital information, and create desired reports. The described approach, called the ends-to-means model, calls for developing the database by designing the…

Students pursuing Australian studies should be given every possible opportunity to work with materials produced in Australia. There is a substantial and growing list of good curriculum software written within Australia and from an Australian perspective which can add interest and excitement to Australian geography classrooms. Computers can be used…

This guide provides the highlights of a demonstration session on how to prepare a newsletter using Multiscribe and Appleworks, as well as suggestions for preparing other publications. It includes basic guidelines for preparing a newsletter; directions for using Multiscribe/Appleworks to produce a newsletter; a sample media center newsletter;…

This literature review selectively covers material on end-user searching published between 1971 and 1988. The first section discusses end-user search systems--e.g., multipurpose systems developed for end-users, simplified versions of traditional systems, gateway systems, and CD-ROM versions of databases. This section also discusses the complexity…

Teaching desktop publishing (dtp) in college journalism classes is most effective when the instructor integrates into specific courses four types of software--a word processor, a draw program, a paint program and a layout program. In a course on design and layout, the instructor can demonstrate with the computer how good design can be created and…

This handbook is designed for use by educators, parents, and computer professionals who can utilize it for special assistance; for locating appropriate, relatively inexpensive, quality materials; and for developing an awareness of the broad spectrum of tasks that are essential to the effective use of computers in schools. The first seven chapters…

Although the importance of systematic evaluation of educational policy and practice is well established, various problems confound the intention of evaluating regional or national activity with regard to computer-related activities in education. At least two of these problems relate to a general conception of the appropriate entry points for…

This report defines the functions of computer-managed learning (CML) as (1) test generation, correction, and analysis; (2) record keeping and reporting; (3) routing learners through a set of learning activities; and (4) charting learner progress for a variety of purposes. It then describes the hardware characteristics and configuration of three…

This ERIC Digest examines some of the trends and issues in academic information systems design and describes the policies of several universities that are taking creative advantage of these systems as educational tools. The current emphasis on microcomputers in campus information networks instead of terminals connected to a mainframe computer is…

The more than 200 papers and panel, project, and special session reports represented in this collection focus on innovations, trends, and research on the use of computers in a variety of educational settings. Of these, the full text is provided for 37 presentations and abstracts for 182. The topics discussed include: computer applications in…

This paper examines the development of computer software in the United States and the processes used by school districts to evaluate software for purchase. Topics considered include major software development trends, development criteria, and production costs; software selection and evaluation, including selection processes, and evaluation and…