This document defines and describes electronic databases and provides guidance for organizing a useful database and for selecting hardware and software. Alternatives such as using larger machines are discussed, as are the computer skills necessary to use an electronic database and the use of the computer in the classroom. Files, records, and fields, and three specific database programs are reviewed: dBase II, pfs (Personal Filing System), and DIALOG. The guide to dBase II includes instructions for: getting started, using the manual, help, designing a file, entering data, changing the data, looking at the data, more searching, indexing, creating a report form, printing a report, and changing the structure of a file. The guide to pfs describes versions for the Apple II microcomputer and covers getting started, the function menu, creating a file, adding a form, copying a file, searching, printing, removing unwanted forms, printing reports, predefining reports, and changing headings. For DIALOG, the report includes a reproduction from the introductory manual to the DIALOG system listing databases and their file numbers. (Author/LMM)