Several principles of computerization are offered to help show how computers can improve efficiency. Computer buying guidelines are suggested. (DF)

Recent improvements in the human factors elements incorporated in the design of personal computer interfaces are illustrated by detailed analyses of two microcomputers and their word processors (Osborne 1/WordStar and Apple's Macintosh/MacWrite). The vital steps in operation are described through analyses of the behavioral requirements involved in…

Describes a feasibility study which investigated the effects of introducing microcomputers in primary school classrooms with teachers having no previous experience with their use. A 10-item bibliography is included. (CHC)

Because of the lack of error-free, on-task performance by young children, cognitive modeling has not generally been considered an appropriate technique for characterizing computer use by young children. It is argued that cognitive modeling can be a useful strategy for organizing data on children's performance when the domain being studied is…

Discusses why computer assisted instruction did not work in many classrooms, how older people have fought the new technology, and why implementation of computer technology as part of training has been slow. Also examines uses of the videodisc and microcomputer and the trainer's role. (CT)

Clarifies often misconstrued distinctions with regard to microcomputers, minicomputers, and maxicomputers. Criteria for educational use of microcomputers are examined, including its potential for language and peripheral expansion, and its communication capabilities. (MER)

Discusses the growing importance of the use of Graphic User Interfaces (GUIs) with microcomputers and online services. Highlights include the development of graphics interfacing with microcomputers; CD-ROM databases; an evaluation of HyperCard as a potential interface to electronic mail and online commercial databases; and future possibilities.…

VITAL (Vision Impaired Task and Assignment Lexicon) is an integrated computerized system that performs workplace design tasks for visually impaired workers. VITAL consists of three modules: ergonomics consultation, disability index, and work measurement. Evaluation indicated that VITAL could be used as a tool to help nonprofessional vocational…

Compares two authoring tools that were developed to enable users without programing experience to create and modify software. HyperCard, designed for Macintosh microcomputers, and ToolBook, for microcomputers that run on MS-DOS, are compared in the areas of programing languages, graphics and printing capabilities, user interface, system…

Describes five interfaces to remote, full-text databases accessed through distributed systems of servers. These are WAIStation for the Macintosh, XWAIS for X-Windows, GWAIS for Gnu-Emacs; SWAIS for dumb terminals, and Rosebud for the Macintosh. Sixteen illustrations provide examples of display screens. Problems and needed improvements are…

Describes DIALTWIG, a program written in IBM PASCAL and operating on IBM Personal Computer, which is used to emulate features of DIALOG Retrieval System and reduce cost of online training. Structured search assignments are performed on information science database and database reporting student research at Brigham Young University. (4 references)…

Human-computer interface design concepts are used as the criteria for evaluating the benefits and shortcomings of San Diego State University Library's online catalog, INNOPAC (the PAC). Features discussed include integrated files, search capabilities, system availability, user interface, record-to-record links, boolean operations, subject access,…

Two LOGO dialects are compared for appropriateness for use with second, third, and fourth grade students on the basis of 18 months of experience with teaching LOGO programing language at this level in a four-machine laboratory setting. Benefits and drawbacks of the dialects are evaluated in the areas of editing. screen modes, debugging,…