The use of cellular automata to analyze several pre-Socratic hypotheses about the evolution of the physical world is discussed. These hypotheses combine characteristics of both rigorous and metaphoric language. Since the computer demands explicit instructions for each step in the evolution of the automaton, such models can reveal conceptual…

This series of articles reviews the management of global change data and the role of librarians and information professionals. Topics include the Global Change Data and Information System (GCDIS) thesaurus project, ConQuest Software, the Assisted Search for Knowledge (ASK) project, metadata, standards, and Directory Interchange Format and USMARC.…

This article argues that computerized representations of anatomy can integrate both the spatial and symbolic domains of learning better than traditional anatomical representations. A project at the University of Washington is developing a Digital Anatomist Program, multimedia software that can be used on currently-available desktop computers.…

Presents a discussion of laser disk systems developed by different institutions to store and distribute information and visual images. Includes information on storage, preservation, and use in the classroom or for research. Evaluates image quality, storage capacity, and transmissibility. Urges use of the videodisk to organize information and…

The first of two articles on multiuser access to CD-ROM databases examines options that do not involve a local area network (LAN). Hardware and software requirements, advantages, and disadvantages for several alternatives are described. A product and company directory is included. (MES)

This paper reports on a research and development program which developed a more effective interface between personal computer (PC) users with disabilities and computer systems. The program emulates a PC keyboard, enabling disabled PC users to access standard software via a binary (switch) control element. (Author/DB)

Reviews student use of electronic searching tools and the effect of software changes on user satisfaction and success. Discusses the results of two surveys of InfoTrac users before and after software changes at Northern Illinois University, and proposes three strategies systems developers can take to balance the differing needs of sophisticated…

Describes the required hardware, software, and configuration of the local area network for information sources and CD-ROMS in the medical libraries at Erasmus University, Rotterdam. Problems encountered with microcomputer diversity, memory requirements, device drivers, and Microsoft Extension software are related; and the network's future growth…

Describes a nine-week interdisciplinary study of the environment for middle school students, based on the computer simulation "Decisions, Decisions: The Environment," which involves group work, independent work, and a lot of writing. (SR)

The programing language PROLOG is compared to LOGO in terms of its ability to handle mathematical ideas. This is demonstrated by using PROLOG in solving a geometric theorem and two lemmas. The listings of the computer programs used to solve the problems are included. (KR)

Describes a taxonomy of computer user modes in distance education and identifies three major learning and behavioral processes that are extended by computers: (1) information processing; (2) interaction; and (3) communication. Highlights for each process include the relationship to other media, pedagogical functions, hardware and software, and…

Described is a method of recording student completion of National Curriculum Mathematics competencies. A computer program was developed to simplify the teachers task and shorten the time required to record results, thus freeing teachers time for working with children. (MDH)

Presents 101 variables for use in developing a microcomputing profile and determining the type of microcomputing management appropriate for a library. Variables are presented in 16 categories, including the larger institutional, library, and financial profiles; administration's stance on microcomputing; user profiles; training and support for…

Provides detailed instructions for setting up general purpose CD-ROM workstations using IBM compatible microcomputers and tells how to make CD-ROM disks available to the general user. Use of standardized hardware and software, utility programs, DOS batch files, a shell program, and a hypertext program at the University of Idaho Library are…

Presents a futuristic short story written by a high school student with cerebral palsy who used a DragonDictate voice-activated computer system to write the story, which was awarded the Indiana State Champion Prize in the Future Problem Solving Writers Contest. (LRW)