Common computer terminology, microcomputer systems, peripheral equipment, and internal workings are discussed. Factors affecting establishment of a microcomputer in a music department are objectives and needs, available or easily created software, and hardware configurations that fit budgets yet provide needed power and flexibility. (KC)

Reviews characteristics of computer-based training (CBT) that make application of communication theories appropriate and presents principles from communication theory (e.g., general systems theory, symbolic interactionism, rule theories, and interpersonal communication theories) to illustrate how CBT developers can profitably apply them to…

Presents tips to help geography educators at all levels set up a computer mapping laboratory. Discusses what a computer mapping laboratory is, needs and planning, software, hardware selection, and laboratory operation. (RM)

The purpose of this focused newsletter is to give teachers who know little or nothing of computers some background on which to base further investigation and decisions. It begins by explaining what a computer is and defining such terms as software, hardware, memory, input/output devices, and disk drive. The newsletter then outlines four major uses…

Presents suggestions for selecting authoring systems based on reviews of over one dozen systems; defines authoring systems; discusses their potential benefits; introduces background evaluation concepts; describes procedures for collecting information about system attributes; and presents a system selection checklist and an authoring system…

This article presents a list of the most current and commonly used computer networking terms, providing brief descriptions of each. The terms are related to hardware, software, electronic networks and services, making the connection, and locating information in cyberspace. (SM)

Noting that the computer software cataloging system at the media center of the Washington (Illinois) Center for Continuing Education is essentially a card catalog in notebook form, this article describes aspects of the development and utilization of the system. Major sections describe: (1) software cataloging system terminology; (2) steps for…

Proposes a taxonomy which describes interactivity and adaptation outside the context of any particular medium. Designed to facilitate the instructional design and media selection processes, this taxonomy is represented as a cube whose axes represent interactivity and internal and external adaptation levels. Levels of interactivity and adaptation…

Local area networks (LAN) are privately owned communication systems that connect multivendor devices at high speed. As microcomputers become more common in schools, user interest in sharing information, software, and peripherals will increase. A basic understanding of the operation of all LAN's can be gained by knowing four elements: media,…

A library has the capacity to deliver much more than just its locally stored and owned resources. By using telecommunications, information can be sought from online databases and from other pupils in schools across the world. This paper includes: (1) an explanation of the link between "virtual reality" and the "virtual…

This document is an information guide for teachers that introduces computers into vocational home economics education classes. The first part points out implications of microcomputers for home economics classes, while the second part provides information on selecting, using, and maintaining computer hardware. The final section describes procedures…

This guide is designed to help home economics teachers in Illinois to become more informed about computers and how they can be used in the classroom. The guide consists of six sections. The first two sections discuss educational uses of computers and factors to consider in selecting a computer for vocational and practical arts education. The third…

A synthesis of the report, "Microcomputers in Vocational Education: Current and Future Uses," this document identifies and addresses a number of critical issues associated with microcomputer use and offers ideas on explicit ways that the microcomputer is being and can be used for vocational instruction and management. The document…

This book is a manual for educators to use in curriculum planning and development. Chapter 1 examines the nature of curriculum and its relationship to instruction by (1) defining curriculum and the four main levels of curriculum work (curriculum policy, field of study, program of studies, and course) and (2) distinguishing between six types of…

This document is intended to help open learning and distance learning practitioners use, design, and select appropriate open and distance learning materials. The document begins with a brief overview of the following forms of open and distance learning materials: workbooks; structured materials; computer-based training materials; online materials;…