Uses a prototype decision problem to demonstrate usefulness of an electronic spreadsheet in analyzing decision trees and performing other types of decision analysis. Advantages and disadvantages of implementing operations research/management science models on electronic spreadsheets are discussed and some do's and don't's are suggested. (Author)

Describes a collection of widely used software programs which can help teachers be more effective. Included are graphics programs, word processing, database managers, and gradebooks. Includes names and addresses of distributors. (JDH)

Lists names and addresses of companies producing software directories, software catalogs, and professional computing journals. Suggests four considerations in ordering software. (JDH)

Experiences at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in teaching with interactive spreadsheet computing are described. Advantages of using this software in engineering classes are noted. (JN)

Presents a list of favorable reviewed microcomputer software for K-12 student instruction. It is not a buying guide, but an aid in locating programs for review. Software are listed under such headings as computer awareness, advanced mathematics, algebra, arithmetic, problem-solving/logic, biology, astronomy, chemistry, environmental…

Discusses microcomputer applications in social work settings, including designing client records and process notes, establishing filing and recordkeeping systems, and performing qualitative and quantitative analysis of data stored on diskettes. Considers the applications of available, easy-to-use and reliable software packages. (Author/JAC)

Networks confined to one classroom or several classrooms in one building are called local networks. The nature and uses of these networks, software needed to run a network, software problems, and potential problems are discussed. Information on commercially available networks (including source, cost, hardware/software provided, features, and…

Describes three popular "shareware" computer programs: PC-Write (word processing program for IBM PC and compatibles); PC-File III (electronic file system); PC-Talk III (communications program). Shareware programs are marketed at minimum profit with maximum distribution and unlimited acceptance test; are protected by copyright; and…

This third article in a five-part series focuses on personal computer software (instructional packages for the computer itself). Topics covered include 11 categories of microcomputer software, evaluation and selection, purchase, version numbers and upgrades, copy protection, disk operating system commands, preparation of master disk, batch files,…

Discusses an interactive testing and tutoring system for use within any discipline. The system (which consists of four interconnected computer programs) was developed at Iowa State University to test and tutor students in courses with large student to faculty ratios. (JN)

Discusses development of an analog simulation program for microcomputers similar to those available on mainframe computers. The program is interactive, more user-friendly than batch mode mainframe simulators in use, and has user help, error detection, and medium resolution graphics for presentation of system responses. (JN)

Briefly describes most of the currently available scientific word processing software packages. Unless noted, these products (including Molecular Presentation Graphics, ProofWriter, Spellbinder Scientific, Volkswriter Scientific, and WordMARC) run on the IBM PC family of microcomputers. (JN)

The article reviews ways in which software can be modified for students with mild learning difficulties and criteria for evaluating software in terms of its appropriateness to school curriculum, software format, and its effectiveness in ameliorating learning difficulties of individual children. (CL)

Discusses data acquisition systems for biologists, considering: (1) input; (2) output; (3) controllers; (4) software for data acquisition; and (5) programing languages. Also discusses several biochemical databases, including those storing data on protein sequences and on chemical structures in two-dimensional form (together with biological testing…

A Heath/Zenith H/Z-90 personal workstation for a PRIME 550 host computer has been developed. The personal computer-based workstation has local editing capability with automatic upload and download of PRIME files, supports a local printer, and provides backup of files on local floppy disk. (Author)