Microcomputer applications in allied health education: some new alternatives

Allied health educators should consider that today low-cost microcomputer hardware and software that can significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of teaching are available. These alternative educational applications of microcomputer technology in allied health can be developed by faculty themselves without programming or reliance on computing experts. Such applications include word-processing software for creation and revision of syllabi, exams, and handouts; data base management software for creation of large sets of bibliographic references, storage and retrieval of data on student admissions and matriculation, and management of clinical affiliations; spreadsheet software for preparation of budgets, calculation of student grades and test item analyses, and demonstration of physiologic and biologic phenomena; and graphics software for production of graphs and charts and printing of graphic images. These instructional support uses of microcomputers hold the greatest promise for near-term cost benefit in allied health education.