This is a must-have resource for all K-12 teachers and administrators who want to really make the best use of available technologies. Written by Doug Johnson, an expert in educational technology, "The Classroom Teacher's Technology Survival Guide" is replete with practical tips teachers can easily use to engage their students and make their…

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.…

Describes several situations in which elementary and secondary school students successfully use adult level software in learning situations. Suggestions on how to teach students to use adult level software are presented and the advantages of such use are discussed. (MBR)

Presents rates of student computer use by grade level, frequency of use, reason for use, and family income. In 1996, 79% of 4th graders, 91% of 8th graders, and 96% of 11th graders were using a computer at home or at school to write stories and papers. (Author/SLD)

Discusses various aspects of what is implied by the term "computer literacy," suggesting that competence with computers comes from using computers as machines, as a clerk doing data entry does; as tools, as a manager doing financial analysis does; and as creative instruments, as a writer or professional programer does. (Author/JN)

When assessing teacher candidates, there are eight computer-literacy areas to consider: word processing, databases, spreadsheets, presentation programs, online service access, e-mail, trouble-shooting common computer problems, and computer software usage and evaluation. Finalists should be able to demonstrate these competencies. (MLH)

Discusses inequities in computer use in terms of: (1) distribution between wealthier and poorer schools; (2) number of Title I and non-Title I students taking programing courses; (3) differences among tracks within the same school; and (4) sex differences in computer uses. Raises questions about efficiency and equity of computer oriented…

This article discusses several general areas in which computers can add more substantially to the quality of education: (1) rapid diagnosis; (2) rapid feedback; (3) exploratory/laboratory experiences; (4) computer literacy; and (5) word processing. (JMK)

Describes outstanding business education programs in individual schools. (JOW)

This article describes the CHECK procedure for teaching students with learning disabilities skills in the actual operation of a computer spell-check. Students are urged to check the beginning sound, hunt for correct consonants, examine the vowels, make changes, and keep repeating the process. (CR)

Describes the implementation of a computer application skills continuum developed by the Jefferson County (Kentucky) Public Schools to teach keyboarding, word processing, database, and spreadsheet skills to K-12 students. Discusses teacher inservice training, student assessment, first-year results, and future plans. Includes samples of grade 5 and…

Presents two articles: "Your In-Class Communication Center" and "New Software Programs." The first suggests three ways for teachers to use their word processing program to generate standard forms, produce a class newsletter, and create a homework checklist for each student. The second presents information on software programs (grade level, focus,…

Presents rationale for including use of productivity tool software--database management systems, spreadsheets, graphics software, word processing--in classrooms and reviews appropriate strategies for introducing students to these tools. Discussion covers adaptability of these tools to various academic disciplines and illustrates how students…

A project using Apple IIe processing stations and Apple Writer II software increased written English fluency for Native American students in grades 7-12 at the Yakima Tribal School. Thematic maturity did not increase, and students became reluctant to do handwritten work. (LFL)

Considers the motives for schools acquiring computers, three different ways in which computers may be relevant to instruction, and the extent to which they address broadly shared ideals for children's education. Also discusses the effectiveness of computer-assisted instruction in drills and tutorials and the development of writing skills. (RDN)