Describes a computer art program in a South Carolina school district that helps students become computer literate through the use of computer graphics. (MD)

Hints are presented for conducting an inservice teacher workshop on computers: (1) address major ideas (rather than intricate details) related to computers; (2) offer "hands-on" experience; (3) provide a reassuring atmosphere; and (4) gain insights by examining why teachers don't use computers. (CJB)

Discusses the role of computers in today's world and the construction of computer use attitudes, such as gender gaps. Suggests how schools might close the gaps. Includes a brief explanation about how facility with computers is important for women in their efforts to gain equitable treatment in all aspects of their lives. (PA)

Argues that most school systems in the United States fit into one of the five evolutionary stages of computer use: initial experimentation, state legislative involvement, search for software, initial computer integration, and full integration. These stages are described and tips on how to choose the best computer software are given. (MBR)

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)

Defines new literacies and explores their place in school curricula. Contends that what is missing is a method of reading and understanding the new languages of media that would enable educators to produce meaning that enhances lives and rejects the oppression that privileges some students and denies other students' voice. (PM)

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…

A model syllabus is presented for promoting literacy in information technology for elementary and secondary school teachers. In the syllabus, information technology is defined, and educational implications of new information technology are discussed in terms of the societal context, and teaching and learning. Educational uses of the new…

The meteoric rise of the computer age is a challenge for public educators, many of whom are still unfamiliar with basic computer technology. Yet many educators are finding that they can correct their misconceptions about computers by becoming "computer aware." Computer awareness comes from gaining a knowledge of computer history; a basic…

Before inservice teacher education programs in computer literacy begin, organizers should consider main objectives, who should become involved, and how much hardware should be purchased and utilized. Tips for running a better workshop and Part I of an eight-part staff development series workshop for computer literacy, including hand-outs, are…

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…

Although researchers are only now beginning studies of microcomputer use in classrooms, findings concerning the educational use of mainframe computer terminals indicate educational benefits. The available studies suggest guidelines for classroom microcomputer use. These guidelines include developing administrative procedures for evaluating…

In April of 1984 the Aroostook (Maine) Computer Educators, in conjunction with the University of Maine at Presque Isle, conducted a computer programming contest for county students in grades 4-12. This document describes the structure of that contest, including grade level groupings (4-6, 7-9, and 10-12); rules for team membership; the schedule…

Suggests educators who are not yet computer literate choose an alternative focus by learning to evaluate software and determine its potential for use in specific educational settings. Questions which should be asked when reviewing software on appropriate use, content, and characteristics are presented, along with a software evaluation checklist…

School board computer policies should include letting parents borrow and be trained on the district's computers, having sufficient software available before buying hardware, announcing the kind of computer to be used, and listing for parents the software each course uses and what commercial software is compatible with the district's. (RW)