This guide for teachers focuses on how microcomputers may be used in the home economics classroom and how the computer is affecting and changing family life. A brief discussion of potential uses of the microcomputer in educational settings is followed by seven major sections. Sections 1 and 2 provide illustrations and definitions for microcomputer equipment, steps for making decisions on hardware purchases, minimum hardware items needed, suggestions for evaluating computer software, questions to be asked before purchasing software, and a short evaluation checklist developed specifically for the evaluation of home economics software. Section 3 identifies and explains the three uses for computers in the home economics classroom--computer assisted instruction, computer managed instruction, and the production of student learning materials. Section 4 provides information on 96 specific home economics software programs grouped under the following headings: careers; child development and child care; clothing and textiles; consumer education; family living, values, decision making and self-improvement; foods and nutrition; housing; preschool education; and miscellaneous. Nine future computer skills are projected for home economics teachers in Section 6, and Section 7 identifies seven future uses of computers in the home. Topics which relate to the microcomputer's impact on future life are also discussed, and the document concludes with a collection of five sample home economics computer programs written on an Apple IIe, a glossary of computer terms, a list of software producers and distributors, and suggestions for further reading. (JB)