Reviews software packages by providing extensive descriptions and discussions of their strengths and weaknesses. Software reviewed include (1) "VISIFROG: Vertebrate Anatomy" (grade seven-adult); (2) "Fraction Bars Computer Program" (grades three to six) and (3) four telecommunications utilities. (JN)

Discusses evaluation criteria for selecting authoring tools, including system complexity and language, cost, copy protection, ease of learning and use, graphics, sound, and peripheral interfacing capabilities, support documentation, overall performance, tutorials, instructional design and management features, and product support. A…

Provides a form for evaluating software and software design. The form, which emphasizes instructional qualities, considers science processes, hardware requirements, program mechanics, student reaction, and other areas. Guidelines for using the form are included. (DH)

Some examples are given of geometric exploration and problem solving in which Logo is the primary tool and turtle graphics is the mathematical environment. Students can explore and develop important patterns while building visual intuition. (MNS)

This article presents a brief history of the videodisc and describes three major current manifestations of this storage medium--read-only, write-once, erasable. The current status of write-once technology, major corporations involved in the field, potential uses for various types of storage media, and software and market trends are highlighted.…

The conceptual framework, design, and implementation plan for building a decision-support system for enrollment management at a private university are outlined, including information about the computer hardware and software used in implementation. (Author/MSE)

Describes the large-class BIJOU teaching support system developed at University of California-Berkeley to facilitate recordkeeping and communication with support staff. Reasons why large classes exist, organizational elements, and teaching support systems requirements are reviewed. Tasks supported by the BIJOU saystem, costs, and possible…

Traces the history of Virginia Tech's requirement that incoming freshmen majoring in computer science each acquire a microcomputer running the UNIX operating system; explores rationale for the decision; explains system's key features; and describes program implementation and research and development efforts to provide personal information…

Discusses the possible limitations and the advantages of computer-assisted language testing and several test variables which are of concern in determining test validity. The concept of computer-adaptive testing and its relationship to these variables is described. (SED)

Describes a product--BiblioFile, Library Corporation's catalog production system--and a service--reproduction of public domain software on CD-ROM for sale to those interested--which revolve around the ultra-high-density storage capacity of CD-ROM discs. Criteria for selecting microcomputers are briefly reviewed. (MBR)

Discussion of public access microcomputer service areas in public libraries covers walk-in access, software/hardware circulation, online call-in services, and special programs. Principles for successful public access programs are also discussed, including hardware/software selection. Problems relating to equipment breakdown, diskette storage, and…

Reviews the varying roles of academic libraries and notes ways in which libraries have become involved in administering public-access microcomputers, building software collections, and providing instructional and other support services. The goals of offering microcomputer access services and steps necessary to plan for them are examined. Eleven…

This article describes an interactive computer program that allows medical students to enter a completely free-form problem list at the keyboard and receive immediate analysis of the accuracy and thoroughness of their diagnostic impressions. (Author/LMO)

Illustrated first is the case in which a wrong procedure (with fractions) leads to a correct result. Trying to justify why it works in this case and looking for similar patterns involved interesting algebraic considerations as well as use of computers. (MNS)

Reflects on the use of microcomputers in the schools, shares personal experiences with computers, and outlines a project to develop instructional software designed to promote the development of basic reading and writing abilities among illiterate adolescents and adults. (FL)