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…

Discusses approach to integrating computer programing into a calculus-based physics survey college course which stresses three major uses of computers: data reduction, calculation, and simulation. An initial programing exercise and practical constraints--time a student can allot to course and student's level of confidence--are mentioned. (EJS)

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)

To help overcome their "computer anxiety," college faculty participants in a computer literacy workshop were allowed to keep a microcomputer at home during the 10 week workshop. Weekly meetings consisted primarily of answering questions, demonstrating new/interesting Atari programs, and discussing potential of the computer as an…

The Education Express, a state-of-the-art mobile classroom, brings computer training to rural training sites in Schuyler, Chemung, and Tioga Counties--the Southern Tier of New York. Clients include nurses, other workers, senior citizens, and GED students, who lack access to such trainings because of financial, time, or distance constraints.…

Discusses the use of computers to help with problem solving. Topics include information science, including effective procedure and procedural thinking; templates; artificially intelligent agents and expert systems; and applications in education, including the goal of computer literacy for all students, and integrated software packages such as…

This article presents the University of New Hampshire's approach to ongoing training of computer users and argues that training is an investment with a large payoff. The article considers factors affecting training success; computer support; academic computing training; and administrative computing training, including developing a user services…

The University of Guelph's experiences in using computer-based instruction and computer conferencing to make education accessible to distant learners illustrate how such problems as computer anxiety, technical difficulties, and technical delays affect access and learning. (SK)

Describes step-by-step procedures for taking apart a disk drive on an Apple microcomputer for a student demonstration. Lesson preparation is discussed, the use of small groups of students is recommended, and suggestions for teaching the lesson are given. (LRW)

Presents a conceptual analysis of self-efficacy and reviews the literature on self-efficacy in the microcomputer environment. Topics addressed include self-efficacy versus other theories; efficacy versus outcome expectations; and sources of efficacy information, including performance accomplishments, vicarious experiences, verbal persuasion, and…

Considers whether laptop and handheld computers will be able to replace printed textbooks in classrooms. Topics cover benefits of classroom computers, including the need for computer literacy; computer costs, including service contracts, theft, and the need for staff development; the problems with dated textbooks; publishers' concerns; and…

Discusses the public's growing ignorance about the value and capability of libraries. Topics include information skills, including measuring accuracy and authenticity of computer-based information; false expectations; the information explosion; and the need for a new literacy that includes information literacy, cultural literacy, computer…

Describes activities and benefits of a series of summer technology workshops for librarians and teachers offered by the Houston Independent School District. Sidebars list software programs provided to workshop participants, basic steps of the "Big Six" skills, and Web site search tutorial. (AEF)

Four years ago, the staff at our school (Marie C. Graham Elementary School in Harrison Township, Michigan) agreed to take an evaluative look at the use of technology in the classroom. Through a self-study process and a district technology initiative called Project 2000, teachers had the opportunity for change relative to technology integration.…

A theme for this year's Techtalk is keeping up with technology, emphasizing both professional development and new technology. This first column will look at the how and why of professional development. A second column will highlight wireless technology. The National Association for Developmental Education's Executive Board (NADE, 2001) resolved…