Discusses the uses of the computer and how it is changing society. In the classroom computers teach new skills and can provide instructional microworlds and minilaboratories in which students carry out experiments. Includes suggestions for preparing written assignments and an outline for a course on preparing teachers for using computers. (MD)

The fastest growing segment of the higher education market for computing lies in the area of instruction. With the next generation of high-performance, low-cost work-stations coming online, software becomes the key to success. Software for instruction has been the most difficult for vendors to deal with. (MLW)

Presents a product selection chart for 12 currently available gateways or front-end packages suitable for online searching. Information provided for each package includes producer, cost, type, location, information accessed, equipment required, operating system, and search capabilities. A 94-item bibliography to published literature on these…

Discusses a theory-based design strategy for concept learning that may be used with computer-based instruction on almost any delivery system. The computerized Rational Set Generator (RSG) is conceived to be a template that adapts to students' needs in ways that are supported both by learning theory and empirical findings. (MBR)

Considers the advantages and disadvantages of various microcomputer hardware and software alternatives for the campus newspaper staff. Looks at hardware factors such as cost, speed, expandability, and software availability. Assesses choices in word processing and business applications software. (AYC)

Describes activities, games, experiments, demonstrations, and computer-oriented exercises in all science areas. Topics include energy flow through a marine ecosystem, using 2,4-dichlorophenoxyethanoic acid to demonstrate translocation in plants, use of the dichotomous key, use of leaf yeasts to monitor atmospheric pollution, and others. (JN)

Since computer programs have been available for estimating and testing linear causal models, these models have been used increasingly in the behavioral sciences. This paper discusses the problem that very different causal structures may fit the same set of data equally well. (Author/LMO)

Presents questions to consider when selecting a computer gradebook program. Questions cover (1) attendance, (2) academic progress, (3) reports, (4) design features, and (5) customer support. (CH)

This annual article reviews the progress and pitfalls experienced by the automated library system marketplace during 1985. Marketplace activity is represented by events in four segments: turnkey systems; library-developed software; software designed to run exclusively on microcomputers; and production of computer output microform catalogs. List of…

Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT) officials who travelled to People's Republic of China present a first-hand view of China's interest in and use of educational technology. Discussion includes China's educational environment, nationwide education goals, microcomputer and computer software suppliers and educational…

The problem of controlling the grizzly bear population at Yellowstone is described. The results are presented in graphical form and discussed. A computer program is included. (MNS)

Discusses number and type of microcomputer software programs useful to libraries and types of hardware on which they run, as identified by Nolan Information Management Services. Highlights include general application programs, applications designed to support library technical processes, producers of library software, and choosing among options.…

Describes how microcomputers, together with an in-house developed expert system, are assisting Sweden's Linkoping University library staff, who possess beginning programing skills and computer expertise, in improving library performance. An example illustrating how the dimensional flowcharting improved the interlibrary loan operation is presented.…

Presents complete listing and documentation for an Applesoft program which stores test grades for every student, handles 10 different classes, calculates cumulative grade points and percentage grades, grades, drops lowest test grades, generates hard-copy reports, adjusts test scores for a class, and calculates test mean and standard deviation. (JN)

Presented are instructions for activities in which a calculator is used to investigate algebraic concepts. Also presented are short computer programs involving topics taught in prealgebra and an activity in which a trapezoid is transformed into a circle. (JN)