Designed to answer basic questions educators have about microcomputer hardware and software and their applications in teaching, this paper describes the revolution in computer technology that has resulted from the development of the microchip processor and provides information on the major computer components; i.e.; input, central processing unit,…

Originally part of a symposium on educational media for the deaf, the paper presents guidelines for selection of a microcomputer for school use. Procedures for developing microcomputer specifications are outlined and a list of 15 capabilities or options to consider, such as memory size, number of lines per display, and choice of printer, is…

The first section discusses two common styles of microcomputer consulting, when each is appropriate in libraries, and the dangers of using one type. The second section focuses on types of vaporware, the effects of each, and steps to minimize potential damage. A bibliography of this quarter's literature watch on microcomputer hardware and software…

Selecting hardware and software for adult literacy instruction is a complicated task requiring careful attention to the integration of various computer models, software packages, and instructional objectives. Decisions surrounding the acquisition and maintenance of technology are further complicated by limited funding, expertise, information, and…

Guidelines for the planning and purchase of microcomputer systems are presented in outline form. These guidelines are directed to educators in developmental education, special education, and learning center environments; however, they are applicable to all educators intending to use microcomputers. First, a discussion of hardware considerations is…

Examines the problems in selecting a microcomputer and offers some suggestions on equipment and on procedures to follow in making a decision. (IRT)

The intent of this book is to help a parent or teacher make informed decisions about which medium (book, television, computer game, film) to select, how to present these materials to children, and how to evaluate the effectiveness of the medium. This book equips the reader to answer three basic questions: (1) What is distinctive about story…

The paper addresses three major concerns associated with incorporating microcomputers into educational settings: computer use, software selection, and hardware selection. Advantages of the computer in instructional settings are noted as well as its limitations. Staff is advised to select which of four applications is appropriate to their setting…

Describes seven software programs for day care center management including price, technical support, months on the market, customizing capabilities, and informative notes. Gives four suggestions for matching software to day care center, with a list of shopping questions to ask. (BB)

This article, the third in a series, provides a list of criteria to be used in evaluating administrative software. Some general guidelines are provided, followed by 30 questions that should be asked concerning documentation, input, processing, output, and other areas. (DCS)

The decision-making approach outlined involves defining a vector of computer characteristics, which are modified by importance factors and by assessments of the extent to which each computer realizes each of the characteristics. A single number that may be regarded as a "figure of merit" results. (Author/IRT)

There is an abundance of educational software available, the quality of which ranges from invaluable to a waste of money. The following guidelines should make shopping for software as painless as possible: (1) know your objectives; (2) be sure the software fits your equipment; (3) consider dealer support; (4) consider brand names first; (5) check…

This guidebook is intended to provide introductory knowledge to adult education teachers and administrators who are interested in the purchase and use of microcomputers. Although the emphasis is on adult basic education, most information is applicable to adult secondary settings. Section 1 is a brief history of computer development. Section 2, on…

Suggestions are offered regarding the use and selection of software with LD (learning disabled) students. The scarcity of appropriate software for the population is pointed out and a hybrid selection scale based upon several existing scales is described. It is noted that the major reason for rejecting software is the high readability skill…

This guide for evaluating microcomputer instructional software includes a hardware/software interface analysis sheet which can be used to determine if the software being evaluated is compatible with the hardware on which it will be used. Also provided is an instructional software evaluation form for use in making judgments about (1) specific…