The survey holds an increasingly important place in institutional advancement. As college and university decision makers turn more and more to their constituencies for support and assistance, a competent information-gathering and processing network becomes crucial. Heuristic v algorithmic designs, Attitude Information System, and the microcomputer…

Describes a menu-driven software system for searching CD-ROM databases that also unobtrusively gathers data on CD-ROM usage. The discussion covers the steps involved in creating a log file using DOS, tips for capturing user status, strategies for salvaging incomplete data, and types of CD-ROM usage analysis supported by these data. (three…

This article describes a system based on the Epson HX-20 used for real time (rather than time-sample) recording of behavior observation data, which allows the researcher additional options in analysis. Examples of the programs developed, types of research questions asked, and data analyses conducted are provided. (Author/PB)

This description and comparison of the major economic statistical database services discusses such factors as public and proprietary data, value-added services, user training and support, data specialties, and pricing. (CLB)

Computer-based management systems offer an efficient means of recording, categorizing, and summarizing data on student discipline. This article furnishes basic information on developing student files, entering data, and generating meaningful reports, such as individual student profiles, date and period frequency, student referral distribution, and…

This second of two parts (part one presented in the November-December issue) continues a discussion of a BASIC program on computer arrays. Individual lines for organizing and retrieving data from the computer's memory are discussed. (JN)

Discussion of science and math instruction for elementary and secondary students highlights the use of microcomputer-based laboratories (MBL). Data collection, storage, and display are discussed, the use of databases to organize and manage information is described, and the exchange of ideas with other students through telecommunications is…

Recent technological advances have put alumni-development computer systems within reach of most colleges and universities. Options, including the types of hardware available, the many ways to match an office's needs to your hardware, and the types of software available are discussed. (MLW)

Describes the design and operation of four software packages, or macros, written in the programing language of Microsoft's EXCEL for use on the Macintosh computer for data manipulation and presentation used in educational research. Reordering tabulated data, reversing the scoring of tabulated data, and creating tables and graphs are explained.…

A handheld computer observation system was developed using Hewlett-Packard HP71B computers for recording and IBM-PCs for storing and analyzing data. Algorithims used in observing interactions between handicapped children and peers or teachers are described. Also described are behavior definitions, observer training and observation procedures, the…

Microcomputers can offer much assistance in one of the major problems that faces virtually every oral history program--organizing, manipulating, and making available the vast quantities of historical data collected. How to automate an oral history program is described. The database management system dBASE II is discussed. (RM)

The LOTUS 1-2-3's special database management operations are used by school budget officials to display data in a variety of ways to assist their decision making. (MLF)

Described are features and functions of the Behavioral Observation System--Computerized (BOSCO), which was developed for TRS-80 laptop computers to integrate data collection and analysis functions and allow continuous recording of behavioral data during observation sessions. Applications are illustrated through brief descriptions of several…

Describes LOTUS 1-2-3, an advanced spreadsheet with database and text manipulation functions that can be used with microcomputers by librarians to provide customized calculation and data acquisition tools. Macro commands and the menu system are discussed, and an example is given of an invoice procedure. (Author/LRW)

Discusses several ways in which computers are being used in sociology and how they continue to change this discipline. Areas considered include data collection, data analysis, simulations of social processes based on mathematical models, and problem areas (including standardization concerns, training, and the financing of computing facilities).…