Discusses factors to be considered when planning and implementing a local area network (LAN) for personal computers within a school or an organization. Topics addressed include reasons for networking, characteristics of LANs, organizing a LAN, workstations, disk servers, and file servers. (Contains six references.) (LRW)

The author examines ways in which microcomputers can be used with gifted students, addressing the following topics: hardware, educational software, computer literacy, the computer as research tool, the computer and creativity, programing, and computers and the very young. (CL)

Outlines a teacher inservice course which introduces educators to computers. Each of the three-hour sessions provides both instruction and hands-on experience on the computer. A chart detailing the inservice activities is included. (JJD)

Because metaphors offer ready perspectives for comprehending something new, this document examines various metaphors educators might use to help students develop computer literacy. Metaphors described are the computer as person (a complex system worthy of respect), tool (perhaps the most powerful and versatile known to humankind), brain (both…

Suggests eight steps for training teachers to use computers, including establishing a computer committee, structuring and budgeting for inservice courses, cooperating with other schools, and sending some teachers to the computer company's maintenance and repair school. Lists 25 computer skills teachers need and describes California and Minnesota…

The section includes four articles on the use of computers for gifted students. Topics covered include basic information for parents, care and operating routines, a curriculum guide for computer literacy, the computer's role in problem solving, and computer applications for mathematically gifted students. (CL)

This book goes beyond explaining the continuing need for computer literacy and provides concrete examples of how to implement worthwhile, effective programs even under austere school budgets. The introduction explains the need to produce literate and technologically competent graduates able to compete in the global economy. The various…

The author cites the arrival of the information age and considers its implications for special education. He suggests that special educators must build their information management skills. Four specific applications of microcomputers in special education are addressed: tool applications (in which students use microcomputer technology as personal…

Describes a 1981-82 pilot project in the use of computers in grades one through eight by six schools in two suburban Washington, DC, school districts. Despite "the many obstacles and barriers to computer literacy," three of the six schools made "amazing progress." (JBM)

Computers and humans use similar methods to process information. Advantages of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) include individual instruction, immediate positive reinforcement, high motivation, consistency, and organized instruction. Disadvantages of CAI include inadequate instructional programs, time needed to develop software,…

This guide offers planning and organizing ideas for effectively using computers in classrooms that include students both with and without disabilities. The guide addresses: developing lesson plans, introducing the lesson in a way that builds motivation, providing guided and independent practice, extending the learning, and choosing software.…

Suggests ways to overcome obstacles to student computer literacy, including engaging the teacher, training the teacher, and equipping schools with computers. (FL)

Examples of innovative applications of telecommunications are cited, and the importance of school administrators' acquiring computer literacy emphasized. What educational leaders should know about telecommunications and the computer age is outlined. (MJL)

Intended for administrators or teachers with no prior knowledge of microcomputer applications in education, this document answers frequently asked questions about microcomputers focusing specifically on the use of microcomputers for computer assisted instruction (CAI), drill and practice, and instructional games. Background information covers…

In an interview, Sherry Turkle (author of "The Second Self: Computers and the Human Spirit") discusses the development of personal styles developed by individuals using computers. She stresses the importance of having teachers familiar and comfortable with computers and students having access to computers as tools they use in the…