Describes several common problems that can interfere with the smooth functioning of microcomputers and outlines specific procedures that can be performed at home to correct faulty chips, circuit board and disk drive problems, and problems caused by excessive heat, static electricity, and magnetic fields. (MBR)

Shows how a simple spreadsheet program can be used to teach calculus concepts more effectively through simultaneous use of review questions and instructions, actual manipulation of data and formulas, and visual illustration of results. Concepts illustrated include the difference quotient and derivation of a function; difference and differential;…

Presents the listing for a TRS-80 Model III program which illustrates the first law of robotics (all robots must be programed so that none of their actions will be harmful to man). Also discusses the rational for and development of the program. (JN)

Describes a computer program that students use to check their suggestions of possible lines of investigation during a microbiology exercise, the results of procedures, and the decisions made on the basis of experimental evidence. Effectiveness of the program and practical aspects of the investigation are considered. (DH)

Presents perspectives on methodological assumptions underlying research efforts in artificial intelligence (AI) and charts activities, motivations, methods, and current status of research in each of the major AI subareas: natural language understanding; computer vision; expert systems; search, problem solving, planning; theorem proving and logic…

A basic understanding of computer hardware, software, and internal workings is important before selecting a computer. A brief introduction to elements of the computer is offered. (DF)

More than a third of park and recreation agencies in a 1983 survey reported use of microcomputers. This article explores types of software and hardware favored in the recreation profession. Work processing, budgeting, registration, and inventory are some of the applications used by this profession. (DF)

Discusses the characteristics of information retrieval software and examines several capabilities of two systems, SIRE and ZyINDEX--creating a database, indexing the database, maintaining the database, and searching the database. Each system's strengths and weaknesses in bibliographic record and full text applications are analyzed. A glossary is…

Three activities with Knuth functions are discussed and illustrated, with sample computer programs listed. (MNS)

Describes five computer programs: four simulations of genetic and physical mapping experiments and one interactive learning program on the genetic coding mechanism. The programs were originally written in BASIC for the VAX-11/750 V.3. mainframe computer and have been translated into Applesoft BASIC for Apple IIe microcomputers. (JN)

A report on the use of microcomputers is summarized, with recommendations on algorithms and procedures, the value of short programs, programs designed for general distribution, mathematical utilities, and developments in hardware. (MNS)

Addresses the question of what parents can do to help their children get a better education by using computers at home. The age span covered ranges from preschool to high school. Sources of educational software catalogs and list of educational computing magazines with applicability to home use are included. (JN)

Presents experiences with, and recommendations for, choosing a diet analysis system for use in a high school or college classroom. Software considerations, hardware considerations, and decisions based on relationship between these considerations are addressed. (JN)

Some background information and guidelines on computer generation of random numbers is presented. Sections concern ways of generating random numbers and descriptions of statistical tests. (MNS)

Presented is a three-hour instrumental analysis experiment which allows study of software data-handling methods. These methods include sampling, boxcar averaging, smoothing, ensemble averaging, and digital filtering. Use of the program should provide students with a better idea of advantages and disadvantages of using such software data-handling…