Describes electronic portfolios and explains their use to relate student work to educational standards, demonstrate wider dimensions of learning, and interconnections with hyperlinks. Other topics include selecting an electronic portfolio program, including lists of vendors; components of electronic portfolios; portfolio management; and hardware…

Offers guidelines for schools selecting or upgrading their computers. Highlights include type of user; computer capability; capacity and compatibility; printing; extra features such as zip drives; upgrade capabilities; technical support; and a list of eight vendors with descriptions of the computer hardware they offer for schools. (LRW)

Presents an overview of the hardware and software required to network CD-ROMs in schools. Topics include network infrastructures, networking software, file server-based systems, CD-ROM servers, vendors of network components, workstations, network utilities, and network management. (LRW)

Discusses computer vendors who position themselves as value-added resellers to benefit school library media specialists by assisting them in purchasing effective and appropriate technology products and services. Explains the benefits of developing a good relationship with a vendor, even if the cost is higher than purchasing through a catalog. (LRW)

Describes the results of a survey of school librarians that investigated satisfaction with their selection of library automation systems. Discusses purchasing decisions; networking; Web-based systems; user friendliness; efficiency and usability; vendor integrity; technical support; training; documentation; authority control; links to Internet…

Increases in the availability of technology, the range of content software, and curriculum via the Internet have placed countless options in the hands of teachers. Similarly, increasing accountability has placed added pressure on teachers to meet stated objectives and ensure student performance. How can teachers optimize available technologies and…

Explains how software transportation programs help school districts track school-bus routes, fleet status, and other information and how to move a district to such a system. Advice is provided on the criteria for selecting software vendors, matching data and information of new software with systems and procedures already in place, training users,…