A computer operating system spans multiple layers of complexity, from commands entered at a keyboard to the details of electronic switching. In addition, the system is organized as a hierarchy of abstractions. Various parts of such a system and system dynamics (using the Unix operating system as an example) are described. (JN)

The 98 papers in this collection examine a wide variety of topics related to the latest technological developments as they apply to the educational process. Papers are grouped to reflect common, broad areas of interest, representing the instructional, administrative, and computer science divisions of the Association for Educational Data Systems…

Methods to make computer searching as simple and efficient as possible have led to the development of various data structures. Data structures specify the items involved in searching and what can be done to them. The nature and advantages of using "self-adjusting" data structures (self-adjusting binary search trees) are discussed. (JN)

Discusses the nature and development of computer software. Programing, programing languages, types of software (including dynamic spreadsheets), and software of the future are among the topics considered. (JN)

Interactive computer graphics is fast becoming the standard medium of communication between computers and all kinds of users. Reasons for this trend, the technology of interactive graphics displays, software considerations, applications (including classroom and laboratory applications), and future developments are discussed. (JN)

Numerous studies clearly indicate that Computer Assisted Instruction (CAI) is a successful teaching technique; students respond favorably and it saves learning time. A computer center director offers planning and buying criteria. (Author/TG)

Discusses the nature of programing languages, considering the features of BASIC, LOGO, PASCAL, COBOL, FORTH, APL, and LISP. Also discusses machine/assembly codes, the operation of a compiler, and trends in the evolution of programing languages (including interest in notational systems called object-oriented languages). (JN)

The article explores some of the history that has led to the current emphasis on teaching educators to use computer applications without teaching the underlying computer programing or computer science, arguing that all teachers should receive some instruction in computer science and computer programing. (SM)

Provided are descriptions of programing languages (BASIC, LOGO, Pascal, FORTH, Savvy). Included are two lists, one presenting sources of programing language tutorials (includes computer needed, price, language, additional hardware needed, special features) and the other presenting a buyer's guide to programs that teach programing. (JN)

GLISP is a high-level computer language (based on Lisp and including Lisp as a sublanguage) which is compiled into Lisp. GLISP programs are compiled relative to a knowledge base of object descriptions, a form of abstract datatypes. A primary goal of the use of abstract datatypes in GLISP is to allow program code to be written in terms of objects,…

Discusses interdependence of computers and microelectronics, importance of programing, offices of the future, communications for the 1980s, emerging information systems, and the inexpensive, fast, and reliable small devices such as memory chips. (JN)

Discusses the "computerphobia" phenomenon, separating the valid reasons for some individual's anxiety about computers from their irrational fears. Among the factors examined are fear of breaking the computer, use of unclear documentation, lack of time for learning how to use the computer, and lack of computer knowledge. (JN)

Instructional uses of computers with primary through higher education students is the focus of this extensive collection of 61 papers. The papers are categorized by the subject areas of computer-based education, computer science, the computer as a tool in undergraduate education and beyond, computer services, engineering, mathematics, physics,…

One training center overcomes "computerphobia" by using people-oriented trainers working one on one with the computer. People need to learn to be boss of their computers. Recommendations include: giving the computer a "dumb" name, and reading the manual every three months. (MD)

The 88 papers included in this publication are organized into seven groupings used as themes in the conference, "Computing Knows No Borders." The topics are: Administration (12 papers); Computer Studies (13 papers); Educational Tools (10 papers); Logo (7 papers); Software (9 papers); Special Education (8 papers); and Teaching (16…