Offers criteria for choosing software for child care centers that are based on meeting the centers' needs. The factors of hardware capabilities, ease of learning, cost, and vendor assistance are discussed. A guide to software lists available applications, addresses of companies, and prices of programs. (SH)

Discusses the capabilities and limitations of 10 computer programs that analyze writing style. Describes the mechanisms by which these programs read a text, analyze the writing style, and offer suggestions for improving writing style. (KEH)

Presents an overview and statistical profile of currently available CD-ROM databases. Trends in the following areas are discussed: types of databases available (index, source, reference, full text, numeric, software and images); subject areas covered by databases; update frequency; and pricing. A list of key publishers and software is provided.…

Defines the domains that specific hypertext environments (DSHE) represent and examines DSHE for the domains of journal and book publishing, insurance policy management, and software engineering. The discussion covers seven dimensions along which the power of DSHE can be defined; organizational costs; and topics for further investigation. (27…

Presents two short microcomputer programs which illustrate features of nonlinear dynamics, including steady states, periodic oscillations, period doubling, and chaos. Logistic maps are explained, inclusion in undergraduate chemistry and physics courses to teach nonlinear equations is discussed, and applications in social and biological sciences…

Two coefficients ("H" and "C") for evaluating the homogeneity or congruence of a set of ratings or scores are described. Statistical tests of the significance of these indexes are presented, along with a description of a computer program (CHOPRO) for determining values of "C" and "H" and associated…

The "Take A Trip" system is a computerized system used to: (1) design, store, and share lessons which encourage higher order thinking; (2) construct individual/small group plans; and (3) produce instructional materials. The system provides sample course files, help files on curriculum design, and a personalized learning plan template.…

Describes a project aimed at developing a system to support managers of business software projects by incorporating knowledge acquisition and emphasizing the integration of the manager's tasks. The discussion covers the knowledge acquisition methodology, the architecture of an integrated system, and an overview of project management tasks. (15…

Discusses three different types of databases: utility database programs, add-on databases, and stand-alone databases. Describes how databases motivate students' reading and writing. (MM)

Two components of Scenario, a computer program designed for instructional use, are reviewed, and their applications are discussed. Without learning a programing language, teachers and students can author lessons or presentation materials, including color or monochrome text, graphics, and sound. The program is adaptable to foreign language…

Reports the results of a national survey of academic psychologists relative to the use of microcomputers. Finds that there is an increase in the use of microcomputers for instructional purposes and that such use was unrelated to department size. Discusses the brands of computers most often used and the ways software is utilized. (KO)

Examines the collegiate version of "Writer's Workbench" (a computer program that analyzes the surface elements of students' writing and provides feedback to assist in revision) on the writing of sophomore technical writing students. Concludes that "Writer's Workbench" can be an effective but limited tool for technical writing…

Shares a variety of illuminating metaphors for expressing the special nature and spirit of Hypercard (computer software used to build structures that create patterns and connections). Emphasizes Hypercard's multiple personalities and reminds readers that there are many useful and enriching ways to describe Hypercard. (MG)

Discusses the distinction between cognitive effects with computers, whereby an individual's performance is redefined and upgraded during intellectual partnership with the computer, and effects of computers, whereby such partnership leaves durable and generalizable cognitive residues. Suggests two mechanisms for affecting cognition: skill…

Describes Grammateion, a hypertext system developed to simplify the use of ancient language symbols in scholarly work by providing basic grammatical and lexical information about Greek. A sidebar discussing the benefits of such technologies to the humanities argues that they allow teachers more time to interact with students and students to work…