Because a microcomputer system can be an expensive acquisition, the purchase decision needs to be made carefully. Steps to purchasing a microcomputer include: evaluating the data and word processing needs of the office, determining needs being met with existing capabilities, and making a cost-benefit comparison among systems. (MLW)

This brief paper considers ways in which people with learning disabilities can benefit from both mainstream and specialized computer hardware and software. First, definitions are provided of terminology, including terms such as dysgraphia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia, non-verbal learning disorder, and dyslexia. Discussion of the role of assistive…

This guide is designed as a companion document to the Reading Instructional Intervention Supplements, Grades 4-8, to provide the reading teacher options for including technology in instructional practices. Instructional intervention strategies for each grade level are listed and paired with resources such as student activities, suggested software,…

The experiences of several school bus garages around the country show that it is possible to modernize equipment and upgrade training while also holding the line on costs. Computer software is used to track servicing, inventory, and other information about a bus fleet. Related factors in improved bus maintenance are the quality of the vehicles and…

Highlights some popular search engines and presents guidelines on making queries, narrowing a search, using quotation marks and how and when to used advanced searches. Discusses special search tools for World Wide Web and CD-ROM products and homework assistance software. Lists the network locations of five popular search engines. (AEF)

A guide to the use of microcomputer statistical analysis packages for loglinear analysis describes the application of one popular package to a straightforward problem and critically surveys features available in four of the leading packages. Survey findings and suggestions for further development are included. (Author/MSE)

Discusses the following issues associated with designing ideal university microcomputer classrooms: (1) campus vs. departmental classrooms; (2) finding space; (3) furnishings; (4) classroom layout; (5) selecting hardware; (6) selecting software; and (7) funding. (MM)

Shares insights concerning preparation needed for using Computer Management of Instruction (CMI), the general structure of a CMI system, and some system features a user might encounter. Describes the development of Arkansas' Computer-Assisted Instructional Management system for mathematics instruction. (RH)

Describes trends in CD-ROM retrieval software design and discusses the need to evaluate such software in terms of the specific requirements of the purchaser. A checklist of general evaluation criteria for five aspects of access software--hardware/software dependencies, interface features, search and retrieval functions, output functions and…

Reports an interview with Peter Kelman of Scholastic Software. Describes several developments in writing software for elementary and secondary level students. (MM)

Examines how style analysis programs can assist the writing process. Outlines a method for introducing this tool to business communication students with a minimum amount of guidance. Recommends that business communication faculty are best qualified to introduce their students to the uses of computers to enhance the communication process. (MM)

Examines the contexts of human-computer interaction, and argues that understanding word-processing research done in that setting can enrich thinking about the impact of teaching writing with the use of computers. Suggests issues developed in recent word-processing studies that may interest future researchers. (KEH)

Provides a step-by-step guide to selecting computer software that will meet a child care center director's needs. Describes 16 computer programs designed for management of child care centers. (BB)

Examines several aspects of word processing and desktop publishing, focusing on hardware and software selection. (MM)

Examines several new writing environments, including prompted writing, text-based writing environments, graphics-enhanced environments, and hypertext environments. Evaluates each from an instructional perspective. (MM)