Three students (aged 14-15) with severe handicaps were trained in independent use of a microcomputer, using a variation of the total task chaining procedure. All students were able to complete all necessary steps for computer use in an average of 16 sessions, thus expanding their available instructional and recreational opportunities. (Author/PB)

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)

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…

This two-year study explored the perceptions and roles of experienced elementary teachers (computer novices) as they learned and began using computer technology in their teaching. Results indicated participants' preferences for learning basic computer skills before integrating technology into the curricula, importance of seeing purpose in using…

Mage is a graphics program developed for visualization of three-dimensional structures of proteins and other macromolecules. An application of the Mage program is reported here for developing interactive instructional graphics files (kinemages) of much smaller scale. Examples are given illustrating features of VSEPR models, permanent dipoles,…

This book goes beyond explaining the continuing need for computer literacy and provides concrete examples of how to implement worthwhile, effective programs even under austere school budgets. The introduction explains the need to produce literate and technologically competent graduates able to compete in the global economy. The various…

This book was designed to help administrators, teachers, staff, parents, governing boards, teacher educators, and students to decide what children need to learn about computers and information handling; how these new objectives fit into the curriculum in mathematics, science, language arts, and social studies; how to use computers in classrooms;…

This practicum was designed to initiate the use of databases in an elementary setting. The primary goal was to establish a workable method to incorporate the use of databases and instruct teachers on how to use a sophisticated computer application. The peripheral goal was to transmit the newly-learned skills of the teacher to the students. A…

The author cites the arrival of the information age and considers its implications for special education. He suggests that special educators must build their information management skills. Four specific applications of microcomputers in special education are addressed: tool applications (in which students use microcomputer technology as personal…

The Computer Technology Project is a collaborative inservice/staff development project with a major goal of familiarizing school administrators, staff, and students with computers and their applications. The participating systems are Fitchburg State College, the Shirley Public School System, and the Lunenburg Public School System. The five-phase…

A rationale is presented for teaching gifted students to gain computer literacy, learn programing, use utility software (e.g., word processing packages), and use interactive educational courseware containing drills, simulations, or educational strategy games to develop higher level and creative thinking skills. Evaluation of courseware for gifted…

This survey of the literature provides a review and synthesis of research findings and current thought on the use of microcomputers by school children. Modes of learning and taxonomies of learning are described, and the results of recent surveys indicating the number of computers in schools and the amount of access by students are reported.…

This paper explores three components of academic computing--programming, productivity tools, and computer-based education--by reviewing the past, evaluating the present, and considering the future possibilities of the field. It is suggested that the future growth of academic computing depends upon the resolution of a number of issues: (1)…

Broken Arrow Public Schools (Oklahoma) planned and implemented a successful computer education program for students at elementary, middle, and high school levels within a modest budget. After resolving four basic questions concerning goals, integration, responsibility, and implementation, the district developed overlapping programs in computer…

A program of special education teacher training using microcomputers is described. Microcomputers also facilitate evaluation of pedagogical skills and mastery of program objectives. The need for computer-literate special education teachers is noted and plans for a literacy training program are summarized. (MT)