Describes limitations inherent in traditional computerized information systems in school districts. Characteristics of more flexible, humanistic systems are described, and techniques for utilizing new technology to establish such systems are discussed. Emphasis is placed upon the changing role of nontechnicians with respect to direct communication…

Analyzes potential role of computer-assisted strategies in substance abuse prevention efforts. Discusses substance abuse prevention in context of adolescent development. Defines computer-assisted instruction in terms of opportunities it represents for substance abuse prevention. Describes barriers to address and makes recommendations for…

By targeting a career planning and development program toward nonexempt employees, Corning, Inc. shows its commitment to all workers and reaps benefits for the whole company. Components of the system are software packages, videotapes, information books, and one-day supervisory training. (SK)

More faculty and administrators are seeking access to student files and class rosters and are gaining it through the proliferation of computer terminals on campus, raising the level of responsibility of registrars far above the actual level of control. An institutional approach to records security is recommended. (MSE)

The evolution from classical genetics to biotechnology, an area of research involving key macromolecules in living cells, is chronicled and the current state of biotechnology is described, noting related advances in computing and clinical medicine. (MSE)

The inventory system designed for six storerooms in three buildings at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign's School of Chemical Sciences replaced an issue-slip and transactions record system with barcode technology. Data collection error reductions have been significant, making it easier to determine stock levels and plan purchases.…

A discussion of information management within institutions looks at the relationship between data administration, the application of formal rules and methods to information resources, and distributed data processing, the dispersion of computing functions, and data at electronically interconnected nodes within the organization. Technology, tools,…

Shows how guidelines from Robert Pirsig's "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance" can be used to evaluate computer-based projects in the schools. Guidelines include caring about the project, viewing it from the perspective of the specialist and the common person, and being systematic in approach. (KRN)

Procedures for implementing random assignment with trickle processing and ways they can be corrupted are described. A computerized method for implementing random assignment with trickle processing is presented as a desirable alternative in many situations and a way of protecting against threats to assignment validity. (SLD)

Graphical User Interface (GUI)--and its variant, pen computing--is rapidly replacing older types of operating environments. Despite its heavier demand for processing power, GUI has many advantages. (SK)

To help users develop a long-term strategy for software acquisition, this article outlines two rules: (1) "Know exactly the nature of the problem you want to solve"; and (2) "If you can't try it, don't buy it." Use the sharpest precision software tool you can find to solve your problem and keep a constant look out for something…

Within a computer-assisted smoking prevention and cessation program, 78 high school students completed a modified version of the Fagerstrom Tolerance Questionnaire twice during a two-month time period. Although analysis of the instrument revealed sufficient stability, future research should include the development of items that better reflect…

Literature offering solutions to reduce student absenteeism can be divided into four categories: stringent state/community laws and regulations (parental sanctions, zero credit for missed work, suspensions, and police interventions); in-school programs to increase school effectiveness; use of computer technology to lasso truants and inform…

Provides a brief background of the Biological Abstracts' title index, "Biological Abstracts' Subject in Context" (BASIC) "Stop List," or compilation of nonsignificant words that were going to be automatically stopped from printing. Notes that the Stop List provided an improvement over the raw computer output of titles while…

Perry and Winne (2006) describe their computer program, "gStudy", and argue that it facilitates valid measurement of self-regulated learning (SRL) over time. This commentary addresses the assumptions underlying this argument and raises additional validity questions regarding the use of this tool. These include issues related to the development of…