The exponential increase in the availability of microcomputers will have a tremendous impact on educational research. Already, the microcomputer has provided the key to the solution of some previously overwhelming methodological problems. It has enabled investigators to conduct exciting new lines of research while creating more general implications for future disciplined inquiry within the educational community. Educational researchers, aware of the importance of this new technology, are seeking guidance. There are primarily three areas of application for the researcher who is considering the use of a microcomputer: (1) use of the microcomputer to control experiments, (2) use of the microcomputer to collect data, and (3) use of the microcomputer to process data and results of research. This monograph reviews state-of-the-art microcomputer applications and provides guidance for evaluating and comparing microcomputers, for pursuing research objectives with microcomputers, and for ferreting out further information concerning microcomputers. Resources for microcomputer research applications, checklist of product performance, and a microcomputer top ten buyers' guide are included. (Author/PN)