A study based on the classical theory of innovation determined what faculty members were opinion leaders concerning computer-related innovation and enlisted their assistance in training other faculty. The project led to development of a core group of faculty leaders providing individualized peer support and leadership in innovation. (MSE)

Examines issues related to educational change, discussing both the teacher and the computer as change agents and the student's role in learning. Indicates that one educational goal is to have students become self-reliant and independent learners and that computers can help achieve this goal. (JN)

Equitable distribution of computer resources is an important concern for school administrators. Computer equity consists of three dimensions: access, participation, and benefits. Access is the number of microcomputers available for student use, or the ratio of students to computers; equity issues arise when access to computers is restricted to…

Addresses from two perspectives the problem of providing opportunities for all students to gain knowledge and skills required to use microcomputers: appropriate microcomputer use in the classroom and curriculum, and its role as an indicator of the nature of public education, a catalyst for educational reform, and an equalizer. (MBR)

The effects of the rapid introduction of computing in education on Drexel University faculty were studied. The university decided that incoming 1983 freshmen would be required to own microcomputers, which could be bought at reduced cost. A questionnaire was administered to determine faculty members' experience with computers, their values,…

A Drexel University survey of faculty determined their experience with computers, knowledge of various computer languages, and attitudes about a new policy requiring students' use of microcomputers. Questionnaire responses were obtained from 328 full-time faculty and 222 part-time faculty. For 15 possible ways of using computers, only a minority…

Factors which may impede or promote development of computer assisted instruction are identified through interviews with teachers to ascertain attitudes and learn how computer experience had been gained, visiting a school to track computer usage, and recording first experiences of computer software use in classrooms. Suggestions for initiation…

Discusses the rapid accumulation of microcomputers in elementary schools and the development of teacher-training programs to promote wise implementation and to prepare a foundation for curriculum change. In particular, it describes the design, implementation, and evaluation of an inservice program developed by the United Nations International…

This case study of the acquisition and utilization of microcomputers for administrative purposes at Chipola Junior College, Florida focuses on the reactions of faculty and staff. After a brief review of the college's prior microcomputing activities from 1981 to 1985, the report is divided into four major sections: (1) how administrators involved…

Discusses positive and negative implications of microcomputer technology for teachers and students; how this technology will facilitate barrier breakdown between school and society; possible political implications; and how the principles of anticipation, design, and planning will facilitate a smooth transitional course in school and society. (MBR)

Most computer training has made little distinction between the training of teachers and computer professionals, and few of the professional training courses discuss the fundamental elements of curriculum revision in connection with computing literacy and implementation. The implementation of computing via the microcomputer at the United Nations…

Discusses teacher objections to use of computer technology in schools as well as its possible effects on children and society. A proposal is presented for national action in regard to use of computer technology in schools which encompasses funding, teacher training, and hardware and software acquisition. (MBR)

Policy analysis is the process by which systematically collected information is provided to decision makers. As an integral part of a specific policy setting process and a comprehensive planned change process, such analyses can provide school administrators with much needed information to guide their decisions concerning district-wide…

Arguing that computers in education are necessary to prepare children to live in a future computerized society, this report examines the issues associated with computers in education in developing countries. The first of three parts provides a brief overview of how and why computers are used in education in developed countries; describes…

Technological advances and market forces have spawned a microcomputer invasion of the schools, sparking renewed interest and enthusiasm in computers as educational tools. This advent of classroom computers is highly controversial and the question of benefits remains unanswered because of the wide variety of expectations about their educational…