Discusses the features of animation software packages, reviewing eight commercially available programs. Information provided for each program includes name, publisher, current computer(s) required, cost, documentation, input device, import/export capabilities, printing possibilities, what users can originate, types of image manipulation possible,…

Reviews two graphic programs (Overhead Express and Sign-Master) available for preparing and producing audiovisual aids that can be used to accompany a speech or presentation. (PD)

Briefly describes comprehensive, short, and game-format typing tutorials. Also provides guidelines on selecting a typing tutorial and information on seven software packages. Each entry includes name, publisher, hardware needed, current price, grade level(s), and such information as whether teachers can create lessons or if feedback is provided to…

Describes the use of WordStar, Grammatik, and Proofreader software packages to evaluate students' writing in a business communications course. Shows how spelling and selected prose characteristics can be evaluated by computer. (SK)

Reviews training programs for specific applications (such as VisiCalc, dBase II, and MultiPlan). A list of selected materials is provided. Each entry includes title, supplier, format, computer needed, special requirements, and current cost. (JN)

Clinicians, students, and administrators can save time and effort in preparing, revising, and producing reports on students with communication disorders by using word processing programs on microcomputers. The article discusses the characteristics, applications, and requirements for word processing programs as well as criteria for selection.…

Evaluation of programs incorporating microcomputers should systematically address three steps: (1) review of the program's design; (2) review of the program's operation; and (3) review of the program's outcomes. (CL)

Eight criteria for evaluating microcomputer software are discussed: ability to perform specified tasks, ease of operation, vendor stability, other users' reports, speed of operation, ease of configuration, support from supplier, and quality of documentation. Secondary criteria (e.g., adaptability, expansion potential, security, environment…

The article describes one school district's efforts to educate parents, teachers, and the community about computer technology. (CL)

Presents a technique for the numerical inversion of Laplace Transforms and several examples employing this technique. Limitations of the method in terms of available computer word length and the effects of these limitations on approximate inverse functions are also discussed. (JN)

Describes several commercially-available computer programs which allow users to make copies of "protected" software. Current costs, program features, and ordering information are provided for these "encryption" programs. Also describes a monthly journal (The HARDCORE Computist) which focuses on unlocking copy-protected…

Matrix differencing of data vectors is introduced as a method for computing test variance and is compared to traditional analysis of variance. Applications for computer assisted instruction, provided by supplemental computer software, are also described. (Author/GDC)

Based on a study of eight LD students learning to use word processing, the paper makes recommendations for evaluating word processing software and designing instruction that is sensitive to students' difficulties. (Author/CL)

Reviews what information and software sciences have thus far accomplished in search for empirical regularities and laws and examines what theories have been developed to explain and account for regularities and laws. Specific laws and theories of information highlighted are those of Zipf, Bradford, Lotka, Mandelbrot, and Simon. (Forty references)…

Sutphin and Richardson discuss finding software in other disciplines and adapting it for vocational agriculture. Makin, Chase, and Wonacott describe a National Center for Research in Vocational Education project to develop a procedural guide for microcomputer courseware evaluation. (SK)