With the ever-increasing impact of computerized communication and information delivery, the need to encourage learning about technology is critical for the older population today as well as for soon-to-be retirees. Adler (1996, 2002, 2003) has described and defined the key benefits to seniors: enhanced communication with family and friends,…

Describes design of three linked databases on gardening which are intended for use by home computer owners. Principles of development of these programs--which are neither expert systems nor databases in the usual sense--are outlined, and the self-education process in which the developers found themselves engaged is discussed. (MBR)

Discusses the need for computer literacy for library staff. Computer applications in libraries and information centers are described; problems concerning computerization in libraries are discussed, including computer anxiety, differences in information retrieval methodologies, and user friendliness; and solutions to these problems are suggested,…

To determine how the Internet is being used in education, researchers surveyed newsgroup participants. Questions concerned demographics and usage. Responses totaled 147. Results indicate that there is a solid foundation of users who are optimistic about the future despite hardware and software problems and concerns about offensive material. Seven…

Describes initiatives taken by the Turkish Ministry of Education to promote computer literacy and the use of computers in schools, from 1984 through 1994. Evaluation indicates that in Turkey's high schools, computer education is still in the early stages of development. Major problem areas are lack of financial resources, lack of appropriate…

Discusses various aspects of computer-assisted learning. Focuses on human and technical problems associated with using computers and suggests possible solutions to the problems. Indicates that the greatest human problem (lack of programing skill) can be solved by use of DECAL, a programing language designed for individuals with no computer…

Examines how students with weak computer-mediated communication (CMC) skills fare in CMC courses that require high levels of peer interaction. Subjects were 11 male and 4 female inservice teachers. Findings indicate that students' CMC skills had only a modest impact on their participation in the course; students with less developed skills…

Discusses the use of computer conferencing in education; addresses difficulties involved in conferencing software, including computer literacy, the communications technology, the conferencing interface, integration with other software, and limitations on access; and describes FICS (Friendly Interface to Conferencing System) that was developed at…

Describes a study of 11 large firms that identified difficulties that organizations encounter in matching current information technologies with business needs. The main problems are discussed, including high costs of new technology, lack of computer literacy among senior management, and lack of time in the information systems department. (Contains…

Identifies obstacles to progress of computer-based education as hardware, communications systems, and courseware costs, and computer illiteracy, lack of cooperative vehicles, inadequate teacher preparation, public cynicism, education bureaucracy, and funding shifts. Costs of an experiment involving nine Florida schools using PLATO with legislative…

Identifies and briefly characterizes various ways computers are entering the Soviet educational systems; indicates educational settings that have greatest computing potential; outlines skills to be taught and expected curriculum changes; discusses educational computing problems and advantages noted by Soviet educators; and discusses possible…

Examines the new emphasis on introducing computers into secondary schools in the Soviet Union and describes the development of a computer literacy course, including descriptions of course materials and teacher training. Technical and socioeconomic problems hindering the program's success, especially regarding computer hardware and software, are…

Discussion of hypermedia-based instruction (HBI) focuses on the effects of cognitive style on student achievement. The development of interactive software for eighth-grade students studying computer ethics is described; gender differences are examined; problems are identified; and information-accessing frequency is discussed. (LRW)

Discusses problems with integrating computers into college curricula from both student and faculty perspectives. A lack of faculty computer literacy is discussed; learning the process of computer use versus the purposes for computer use is addressed; the interaction between faculty, students, and computers is considered; and possible solutions are…

Discusses problems and deficiencies in computer technology in American schools based on results of a worldwide study on educational computer use. Highlights include outdated computer equipment; results of computer literacy tests of eighth- and 11th-grade students; lack of curriculum integration; lack of systematic computer acquisition; and lack of…