Low retention rates in third-level computing courses, despite continuing research into new and improved computer teaching methods, present a worrying concern. For some computing students learning programming is intimidating, giving rise to lack of confidence and anxiety. The noncognitive domain of anxiety with regard to learning computer…

A survey of certification offices was conducted to determine what state departments are doing about computer coursework and certification and/or endorsement requirements for teachers and administrators. Results obtained from all 50 states and four United States territories are provided. (JN)

Traces the evolution and development of computer use and reviews the circumstances that influenced the selection of computing resources at liberal arts colleges. Characterizes the time eras of the computer age and projects factors that could influence computer policy and equipment choice. (ML)

Public libraries have vital role to play in introducing computer technology through provision of equipment, programs, and elementary instruction to users of all ages. Creative and resourceful approaches to budgeting and establishing policies and procedures will be required. Canadian public libraries (Oakville, Etobicoke, Aurora, Toronto) provide…

This paper reports on a study involving the administration of two examinations that were designed to evaluate student knowledge in several areas of computing. The tests were given both to computer science majors and to those enrolled in computer science classes from other majors. They sought to discover whether computer science majors demonstrated…

Discusses teacher certification courses in computer education focusing on syllabus development and structure, involvement of the Royal Society of Arts (RSA), and course aims (including knowledge of computer uses in education). Also discusses pilot projects involving the new certification scheme. Additional information can be found in February 1981…

Computers are both understandable and controllable. Educators need some understanding of a computer's cognitive profile, component parts, and systematic nature in order to set it to work on some of the teaching tasks that need to be done. Much computer-related vocabulary is discussed. (MP)

Presents research conducted with a group of non-computer science majors to determine the effects of prior computing experience on success in college computer science courses. Specific relationships between prior experience factors and gender were studied, and the results indicate that pre-college computing can have an important role in achieving…

Although nearly every college offers a major in computer science, many computer science teachers at the secondary level have received little formal training. This paper presents details of a project that could make a significant contribution to national efforts to improve computer science education by combining teacher education and professional…

Since 1961, when the Data Processing Department was formed at Kansas City Kansas Community College (KCKCC), data processing education has radically changed, in structure, focus, content, and students. Where once computer courses were taught only by the Data Processing Department, currently computer-related courses can be found in many different…

Described and critiqued are two ideas which have proven valuable in teaching programming at the introductory level, the mental model and the programming plan. (PK)

We explain certain learning difficulties in computer science education as resulting from a clash between the students' culture as computer users and the professional computing culture. We propose the concept of fertile zones of cultural encounter as a way of overcoming these learning difficulties. This pedagogical approach aims to bridge the gap…

The purpose of this paper is to discuss one instructional design that leverages problem-based learning and game structures as a means of developing innovative higher education courses for students as responsive, lived experiences. This paper reviews a curricular redesign that stemmed from the evaluation of an introductory course in computer…

Designed to assist teachers and administrators approaching the subject of computers for the first time to acquire a feel for computer terminology, this document presents a computer term glossary on three levels. (1) The terms most frequently used, called a "basic vocabulary," are presented first in three paragraphs which explain their meanings:…

The rapid changes in information technology in recent years have rendered current high school curricula unable to cope with student needs. In consequence, students do not possess the proper skills required in today's information era. Specifically, many students lack the skills to search efficiently for information. Moreover, even when abundant…