This general introduction to educational uses of microcomputers provides basic information to assist educators, parents, and concerned citizens in implementing microcomputer programs in the schools. An overview and brief history of educational computing is followed by suggestions which emphasize the need for planning, including pitfalls to avoid, establishing a planning group, and funding strategies. A range of state policies, practices, and services are described. Computer applications are listed and categorized as using the computer either as teacher, tool, object to be taught, or management tool. Ways to fit computers into school practice are also described, including the location of computers in relation to school use. Additional topics include the types of information needed to begin a program; information sources; hardware; software/courseware; staff development programs; and program evaluation criteria. An appendix contains a decision model for microcomputer purchasing; a reference list of periodicals, software review sources, bibliographies, books, and associations; sample software evaluation forms; a partial list of northeast user groups; a partial list of software suppliers; and charts from an August 1981 survey of instructional computer use in public schools in the New York State capital district. (LMM)