Discusses issues involved in automating the relational database design process for microcomputer users and presents a prototype of a microcomputer-based system (RA, Relation Assistant) that is based on expert systems technology and helps avoid database maintenance problems. Relational database design is explained and the importance of easy input…

Discussion of online databases and their hardware and software requirements, interactive search techniques, and costs focuses on information services of interest to higher education. Bibliographic, full-text, and online conferencing databases are described, menu-driven and command-driven information systems are explained, and modems are discussed.…

Describes a procedure for using commonly available database management systems to produce indexes on microcomputers. Production steps discussed include creation of the database, data entry, database sort, formatting, and editing. (Author/MBR)

Describes 38 database projects sponsored by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH). Information on hardware, software, and access and dissemination is given for projects in the areas of art and architectural history; folklore; history; medicinal plants; interdisciplinary topics; language and linguistics; literature; and music and music…

Explanation of the purpose of microcomputer simulations in history classes at the college or secondary school level focuses on the development of one simulation, The American Revolution. Highlights include effects on learning processes of using simulations in a microcomputer laboratory; student evaluations of the simulation; and creation of the…

Describes a computer applications course developed for undergraduate biology students (primarily sophomores) to teach word processing, database and spreadsheet programs, graphing programs, telecommunications, and file transfer procedures. AppleWorks software is discussed, course content is explained, and the microcomputer laboratory is described.…

Discusses the use of microcomputers as communication devices and presents features of several national bibliographic networks, together with examples of searches for information of interest to academics. The status of electronic publishing is discussed and differences between national and local area networks are described. (Author)

Reviews database management software options for academic applications of pedagogy and research offering practical suggestions on choosing software. Software reviewed includes dBase III, Reflex, FYI 3000, Notebook II, AskSAM, Electra-Find, and Practicase. Program advantages, disadvantages, features, flexibility, and costs are discussed. A…