This step by step introductory guide, which is divided into a series of 58 topics that should be familiar to any user of the Macintosh, is intended to aid new users in learning the topics that they will need to know to be successful with the Macintosh. Each topic includes the following: (1) a numbered set of sequential steps to be followed,…

From his frustrating personal experience with an Apple personal computer, Knowles formulates suggestions for the microcomputer industry on incorporating adult learning principles in software and documentation development. In response, Apple staff and other industry representatives discuss the process of developing reference manuals and the issue…

Workers who become adept at using computer software are often asked for help by coworkers. To use their time more efficiently, they should be prepared as effective on-the-spot trainers who might teach a group how to solve a common problem. (SK)

In 1985, the Association of School Business Officials (ASBO) established a "Micro-Lab" at their annual meeting to provide members of ASBO with exposure to, and hands-on use of, various computer hardware and software. Provides a synopsis of several of the presentations made at the 1989 annual meeting. (MLF)

The article argues that even extremely young children can be taught to program microcomputers from their very first contact. A teaching strategy is proposed, having more in common with the teaching of language than with the more traditional didactic-reinforcement cycle commonly employed in the text books. (Author/CL)

Written in simple language and designed in a large-print format, this short guide is aimed at teaching home economics teachers to use computers in their classrooms. The guide is organized in six sections. The first section covers the basics of computer equipment and explains how computers work while the second section outlines how to use…

Argues that most school systems in the United States fit into one of the five evolutionary stages of computer use: initial experimentation, state legislative involvement, search for software, initial computer integration, and full integration. These stages are described and tips on how to choose the best computer software are given. (MBR)

The author examines ways in which microcomputers can be used with gifted students, addressing the following topics: hardware, educational software, computer literacy, the computer as research tool, the computer and creativity, programing, and computers and the very young. (CL)

Offers suggestions for avoiding common errors in online microcomputer use. Areas discussed include learning the basics; hardware protection; backup options; hard disk organization; software selection; file security; and the use of dedicated communications lines. (CLB)

In order for microcomputers to be used in an efficient and effective manner in the classroom, the computer should not be used in trivial ways, such as utilizing it as an electronic ditto sheet or as a video textbook. Educators must take advantage of the computer's unique capabilities, including its branching capacity, its graphic mode, and its…

Highlights the major differences between software training and reference materials, examines the key features that should be present in both if they are to be effective, and presents a checklist for use in evaluating the documentation that accompanies microcomputer software. (MBR)

Discusses development of a software collection at New York Public Library for use with public access computing services. Highlights include computer literacy, languages, and software pertaining to programing, simulations, business, tutorial, graphics, and music. A core list of recommended software titles geared for use on the Apple II…

Developed in order to understand how learning theory can be applied to software application in the classroom, the learning model discussed in this paper is based on the assumption that the learner wants to learn, accepts a challenge, has a willingness to try software, and will become independent in choosing software and making it work. A hierarchy…

In April of 1984 the Aroostook (Maine) Computer Educators, in conjunction with the University of Maine at Presque Isle, conducted a computer programming contest for county students in grades 4-12. This document describes the structure of that contest, including grade level groupings (4-6, 7-9, and 10-12); rules for team membership; the schedule…

The authors argue that definitions of computer literacy are too broad and that the term "computer competence" more usefully addresses questions of knowledge and skills. A taxonomy of computer competence, comprised of four levels, is proposed, and its uses for elementary through higher education are discussed. (MT)