Since 1985, the University of Missouri at Columbia's School of Journalism has been developing a high-technology environment for student work, including word processing, electronic imaging, networked personal computers, and telecommunications. Some faculty worry that the emphasis on technology may overshadow the concepts, principles, and substance…

An award-winning administrator of a college computer system discusses the role of networking and teamwork in successful information management, drawing on experiences during recent political upheavals in eastern Europe for illustration. Other success factors stressed include having and sharing a dream and developing future leaders. (MSE)

In artificial life research, scientists use the principles of evolution to develop complex behaviors from simple elements. By creating lifelike processes, they are trying to understand real organisms and explore possibilities for life in other circumstances. Techniques used are diverse, including biological testing, robotics, and computer…

Describes selecting and installing a computerized point of sale for a district food service program; the equipment needed and preferred; and the training of trainers, managers, and cashiers. Also discusses the direct benefits and side benefits of the system. (MLF)

Technology can assist in recordkeeping that enhances college alumni fund raising. Colleges can contract with commercial vendors who use databases to update address and telephone number records. Keeping track of even small donors can be an effective fund-raising strategy. (MSE)

Assessed the impact of the Mobile Digital Terminal technology (computers used to communicate with remote crime databases) on motor vehicle theft clearance (arresting a perpetrator) and recovery rates in Fort Worth (Texas), using a time series analysis. Impact has been ambiguous, with little evidence of improved clearance or recovery. (SLD)

It is proposed that teachers can exploit the calculator function of a standard microcomputer word processor to create an electronic gradebook. A method is described for computing overall evaluations from component grades of different types and weights on a word processor to instantly calculate the composite for each student at desired intervals.…

A method for downloading Lexis documents to the WordPerfect program and removing extraneous codes and characters is described. Use of a specific utility program is recommended, and a specific sequence of procedures and hints for streamlining the process are offered. (MSE)

A Vanderbilt University (Tennessee) undergraduate honors course in the physics of technology, taught in a special advanced electronic classroom, uses a computer data-management program to create a "stack" of index cards, from which students can answer their own or others' questions about technology. Students learn both physics and clear…

Describes use of a computerized simulation to study prediction in a complex environment (i.e., bus traffic control). Nature of the task, presentation method, number of repetitions, and length of time taken for prediction were measured. Prediction was significantly affected by all factors except number of repetitions. No learning effect was…

Techniques for enhancing a computer-based presentation are outlined, including selection of an appropriate laptop computer, considerations in choosing presentation software, and factors in selection and use of a liquid crystal display (LCD) projector. Information is given on five currently available presentation programs. (MSE)

Control charts are practical tools to monitor various school indicators (attendance rates, standardized test scores, grades, and graduation rates) by displaying data on the same scale over time. This article shows how principals can calculate the upper natural-process limit, lower natural-process limit, and upper control limit for attendance. (15…

Addresses the problems that prohibit expanded Internet access and possible solutions to these problems, particularly with respect to the country of Chile. The three main problems that block Internet usage in Latin America are high demand and poor infrastructure; high costs for Internet access; and high preliminary costs for computers, modems, and…

Looks at the technological changes in the delivery of career services in colleges and universities and examines seven critical issues: appropriate web-based services, student diversity, ethical responsibilities, high-tech and high-touch, holistic approach, staffing and financial considerations, and outcomes. (JOW)

Teaching computer applications can be a very tedious and time-consuming task. The purpose of this article is to present a systematic approach to help guide teachers in teaching computer applications. The metaphor used in developing and organizing instructional content is a jigsaw puzzle. A jigsaw puzzle consists of small pieces that fit together…