A tongue-in-cheek, point/counterpoint discussion between a user and a computer professional is presented. Personal computing, it is suggested, can help strike a balance between what users can do for themselves to gain control and responsibility and what computer professionals can do to support that. (Author/MLW)

The optimum use of the microcomputer can emerge when it competes both in cost effectiveness and actual qualitative performance with all other educational media available. Mainframe computers, available in most school districts, can share data with microcomputers via terminals in schools and classrooms and allow microcomputers to operate most…

Defines and describes the components and functions that constitute a microcomputer--bits, bytes, address register, cycle time, data path, and bus. Characteristics of 8-, 16-, and 32-bit machines are explained in detail, and microprocessor evolution, architecture, and implementation are discussed. Application characteristics or types for each bit…

Pepperdine University's encouragement and support of microcomputers is described. A secondary organizational structure was incorporated that optimally supports microcomputers without increasing staff within information services. (Author/MLW)

Pepperdine University's encouragement and support of microcomputers is described. A secondary organizational structure was incorporated which optimally supports microcomputers without increasing staff within information services. (Author/MLW)

Cherry Creek (Colorado) and Los Angeles (California) school districts are using microcomputers linked to central computers to process student data. (Author)

The internal processes of microcomputer functioning are explained. Components include: (1) a central processing unit; (2) memories which store programs and data; (3) a clock which determines the order in which a computer performs its operations; (4) a bus consisting of receptacles for additional installations; (5) interfaces which connect the…

Discusses various categories of software that can be applied to the development of in-house databases on microcomputers, and describes the use of a general purpose package with a procedural language to design a small indexing system called Revelation. The description covers data storage and maintenance, database design, file searching, and system…

The exponential increase in the availability of microcomputers will have a tremendous impact on educational research. Already, the microcomputer has provided the key to the solution of some previously overwhelming methodological problems. It has enabled investigators to conduct exciting new lines of research while creating more general…

Increased use of microcomputers in schools can be implemented more effectively when management develops acquisitions standards and controls. Technical standards as well as operational and documentation standards are outlined. (MLF)

Explains how spreadsheet software can be used in the design and grading of academic tests and in assigning grades. Macro programs and menu-driven software are highlighted and an example using IBM PCs and Lotus 1-2-3 software is given. (Author/LRW)

The proper combination of computer hardware and software with database subscription services make online information retrieval available to enhance decision making in virtually all aspects of school administration. (MLF)

Discusses topics involved in the selection of an analog-to-digital (ADC) converter and associated front-end signal conditioning hardware. Reviews what types of ADC's are available, best type for particular application, conversion rates, amplification, filtering, noise, and compatibility issues. Suggests purchase strategy and supplies names and…

Microcomputer-based decision support systems were the backbone for the development of the University of Miami's five-year strategic plan. The ways that computer-generated data and graphs were used in the development of the university's strategic plan is described. (Author/MLW)

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)