From his frustrating personal experience with an Apple personal computer, Knowles formulates suggestions for the microcomputer industry on incorporating adult learning principles in software and documentation development. In response, Apple staff and other industry representatives discuss the process of developing reference manuals and the issue…

Suggestions are offered of ways in which teachers of gifted elementary students can provide nonprograming computer activities even when limited computer resources and expertise are available. Among activities noted are word processing and adventure games. (CL)

Presents several computer-oriented activities dealing with electronic dice, reading menus, rhyming words, and a high-technology version of musical chairs. Although these activities assume a certain level of computer expertise, each one can be easily adapted in any grade. (JN)

Reports on findings of research done by Nolan Information Management Services concerning availability of microcomputer software for libraries. Highlights include software categories (specific, generic-database management programs, original); number of programs available in 1982 for 12 applications; projections for 1983; and future software…

Ten visually impaired students (12-18 years old) were instructed via a two-module instructional kit to use microcomputers and to learn the programing language, BASIC. Results indicated that the visually impaired students learned the major components of the microcomputer and were able to use the cassette braille access device. (CL)

Deaf children (9-14 years old) in Project IDEA (Individualized Deaf Education Alternative) use the computer for word processing, problem solving, programing, and creating databases and graphics rather than merely for drill and practice. A list of recommended software for elementary students concludes the article. (CL)

A microcomputer with off-the-shelf software is successfully used to track Geriatric Evaluation Unit patients. The system satisfies four requirements: low cost, software exportability, management of several hundred variables, and decentralized access. Highly sophisticated computer expertise was not necessary for development, and demand on the…

Software is available to record and analyze performance, evaluate physical parameters, monitor training programs, and perform scouting and scheduling tasks. Reduced paperwork frees teachers or coaches for quality time with students. Available software is discussed and selected vendors listed. (MT)

Briefly describes the objectives and design of the MicroRead Index, a microcomputer-based index which utilizes word and sentence length to measure readability of written materials. The program computes a reading level and a consistency index for comparative analysis and determines whether the sample size used was adequate. (MBR)

A project in Fairfax County, Virginia, is training five infants with physical and other handicaps to use the computer to communicate with others and to interact with the environment. Computer training begins with establishment of cause-effect relationship and proceeds through choice selection and finally categorization. (CL)

Learning disabled students were taught to use the LOGO computer graphics language in an integrated fourth- and fifth-grade setting. Instructional strategies (such as providing many reviews) along with the intrinsically motivating nature of LOGO were thought to be responsible for the success. (CL)

Workers who become adept at using computer software are often asked for help by coworkers. To use their time more efficiently, they should be prepared as effective on-the-spot trainers who might teach a group how to solve a common problem. (SK)

In 1985, the Association of School Business Officials (ASBO) established a "Micro-Lab" at their annual meeting to provide members of ASBO with exposure to, and hands-on use of, various computer hardware and software. Provides a synopsis of several of the presentations made at the 1989 annual meeting. (MLF)

Discusses ways a microcomputer system might enhance the mainframe library system at Vanderbilt University. Topics include: (1) types of microcomputers; (2) types of terminals; (3) characteristics of a dumb terminal; (4) characteristics of an intelligent terminal; (5) which terminals should be given additional features; and (6) designing an…

Describes CD-ROM technologies, including how to access them. Highlights include a history of CD-ROM development; multimedia; Macintosh versus DOS/Window users; CD-ROM XA; adding audio and video; Photo CD; video compression; new products; and a list of companies, their CD-ROM products, features and costs. (LRW)