How information technology planning fits into institutional strategic planning, the effective measurement of the results of computer use in the classroom or administrative offices, and how faculty can be encouraged to incorporate computing into their courses are discussed. (MLW)

Results from a survey of 91 educational software manufacturers, developers, and publishers regarding the criteria they use to guide software development indicate that 67 percent have no formal guidelines. Publishers should develop a standard set of criteria in consultation with educators and all software should be field tested before it is…

Integrated Services Digital Network is a technology that allows optimum utilization of human and physical resources by rapid and simultaneous transmission of conversation and data over existing telephone lines. (MLF)

Described is a microcomputer-aided patient simulator (MAPS). The system was developed to increase medical students' opportunities to diagnose and manage patient problems. The system combines a microcomputer with an optional laserdisc player. The system has been used successfully for four years and could be used in other content fields. (RH)

Annotates a selection of text-analysis and writing instruction software programs (excluding word processing), both available and in development. (MS)

The article discusses concerns of producers and users of computer software for those with special needs, reviews current research findings and projects, and reports on a survey of special educators (N=22) that identifies characteristics of desirable software. (Author/DB)

Discusses the advantages of using an electronic newspaper service to facilitate research by providing access to vast sources of information. Examines how to plan an online search and presents an example. Evaluates the usefulness of such a service in light of its costs and benefits. (GEA)

Considers educational applications of local area computer networks and discusses industry standards for design established by the International Standards Organization (ISO) and Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE). A futuristic view of a learning laboratory using a local area network is presented. (Author/LRW)

Analysis of 217 questionnaires completed by special educators in small rural midwestern school districts found that 87 percent had been using microcomputers for less than three years; that microcomputers are used often for drill and practice, reinforcement, games, and tutorial programs; and that only half plan for microcomputer use on a daily…

Increased capacity in microcomputers allows them to schedule classroom use efficiently. Downloading historical and current course data from a mainframe makes data entry easy, and small numbers of courses can be entered by keyboard quickly. Governors State University uses a program that matches room variables and course variables. (Author/MSE)

Presented are a discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of teaching programming with several programming languages. Suggestions for language selection are included. Arguments for a Logo-Pascal computer curriculum are indicated. (RH)

Considers several applications of microcomputer technology to instructional feedback in communication training. Describes how this technology is advantageous in the delivery of immediate, simultaneous, and delayed instructional comments in traditional performance courses. Discusses the linking of video and computer technology to provide…

Describes the evolution of a text processing course into an integrated and elaborate communications curriculum. Summarizes the experiences and observations associated with the efforts of an advanced educational technology center's assessment of the role of the computer in the workplace. (ML)

This article argues that art educators must go beyond mere use of computer technology to assist instruction. They must also use their training in fine arts and humanities to influence the aesthetic and ethical directions of new technologies. (JDH)

The Marijuana Action Maze (MAM) is a computerized simulation game designed to aid drug decision-making skills development. Practicing school health educators, practicing community health educators, and educational software experts assessed the importance, feasibility, desirability, and achievement of the MAM's developmental goals, rated its…