Expert systems offer school possibilities beyond relieving employees of routine work. In the future, expert systems will become tools for budgeting, staff training, and teaching. Describes a system developed at Utah State University, "Mandate Consultant," that helps school staff review the legally mandated steps in developing individualized…

Discusses three different types of databases: utility database programs, add-on databases, and stand-alone databases. Describes how databases motivate students' reading and writing. (MM)

Shares a variety of illuminating metaphors for expressing the special nature and spirit of Hypercard (computer software used to build structures that create patterns and connections). Emphasizes Hypercard's multiple personalities and reminds readers that there are many useful and enriching ways to describe Hypercard. (MG)

Many school business officials have turned to computer equipment leasing. A lease arrangement permits administrators to stretch annual budgets, to appropriate funds, and to easily upgrade or change equipment. Another alternative to high-cost computer purchase is to buy or lease used equipment. (MLF)

Discusses the pros and cons of using a computerized gradebook program for keeping records of student performance. Describes what tasks such programs can do for teachers, and their shortcomings. Explains differences between database and spreadsheet programs, and notes the extent to which 11 gradebook programs accomplish record-keeping tasks. (SR)

Explores how students are influenced by media technology, specifically television and computers. Notes that media are not just a vehicle of information, but are primarily models of how to see, think, read, write, and reason. (MM)

Uses the computer software program "Writer's Helper: Stage II" to illustrate the range of checks possible with various software approaches to the revision of writing. (MM)

When purchasing a computer system that will handle both administrative and instructional needs, school executives need to know the ability of the hardware and software to do the job, and the level of vendor support available after the computer has been installed. Lists 14 questions to assess the vendor's commitment and continuing support. (MLF)

Offers 10 suggestions for improving professional development courses to encourage teachers to use technology in the classroom: offer training, give them technology to use at home, provide on-site technical support, support collaboration with colleagues, allow attendance at conferences, increase access time, encourage research, provide online…

Presents three ideas to help teachers who have only one computer for the entire classroom. The suggestions include having the teachers use the computer themselves to enhance productivity, hooking the computer up to a visual display, and looking for curriculum packages that inspire groups, not individuals. (SM)

Provides descriptions of 23 computer software programs related to day care management. Each entry contains the title of the software package, a short company-provided description of its major features, and the company's address and telephone number. (MDM)

Desktop scanners can be used with a software technology called optical character recognition (OCR) to convert the text on virtually any paper document into an electronic form. OCR offers educators new flexibility in incorporating text into tests, lesson plans, and other materials. (MLF)

Provides tips on ways to keep computer systems in colleges and universities from failing while also controlling costs. Trinity College (Hartford) is used to illustrate how proper staffing, system maintenance, hardware purchasing decisions, technician compensation, and the use of students for maintenance work can effectively support a school's…

Educators are adopting learner-centered instruction in which students, facilitated by technology, collaborate with peers and engage in problem solving and inquiry. This article discusses ways to use technology in authentic learner inquiry as an information resource, content contextualizer, communication tool, construction kit, and…

Presents an Earth Day reproducible that involves online activities. Students are taken on a tour of earth-friendly Web sites, answering questions relating to such vital issues as recycling, land conservation, and the long-term survival of all living things. The sites offer children many opportunities for independent learning in the forms of…