ComputerTowns are local, volunteer organizations providing learning opportunities for interested individuals and fostering computer literacy. ComputerTown Menlo Park is currently being developed (with NSF funding) into a demonstration computer literacy project to disseminate the model to libraries and other institutions. Program…

Account of the successful introduction of a microcomputer into an elementary school, which resulted in computer awareness throughout the school. The school is now involved in teaching programing with LOGO and BASIC, use of computer simulation, drill and practice lessons, and mini courses for teachers and students. (EAO)

The most common approach to computer education is the computer literacy model which suggests that students need some basic familiarity with computers to compete in the job market or to become informed citizens. Discusses why this model for computer education should be rejected by professional educators. (JN)

A six-semester secondary school computer science education program is described. Major program objectives and brief course descriptions are provided. The first course is a one-semester course on basic computer literacy. (Author/JN)

Responds to comments in March/April issue of this journal on use of microcomputers in elementary/junior high schools, focusing on use in elementary schools. Addresses issues of funding for microcomputer purchases, availability of software, and teacher/student training. Suggests that programing is not an essential requirement before purchasing…

The nature of computer instruction that emphasizes student programing in elementary school settings is detailed. Several reasons for the approach taken are given and constraints that those who want to start elementary computer programs must deal with are noted. The receptiveness of girls to computers in elementary grades is noted. (MP)

Discusses a four-point plan for setting up computer literacy programs for teachers and students. Plan focuses on involving existing education agencies; providing leadership; designing a teacher training program; and providing a feeling of belonging, security, and success for staff members. (JN)

Highlights Pennsylvania Department of Education's initiatives related to school improvement and use of technology in education. These include computer literacy, financial aid to schools for innovative classroom projects, electronic mail services, teleconferencing, and technological applications within the department itself (such as word processing…

Views of Arthur Luehrmann, an individual who has become known as one of the most vociferous advocates of computer literacy in educational computing, are presented. Spending four out of five days in a computer literacy course on computing and one out of five on awareness issues is advocated. (MP)