Describes design of three linked databases on gardening which are intended for use by home computer owners. Principles of development of these programs--which are neither expert systems nor databases in the usual sense--are outlined, and the self-education process in which the developers found themselves engaged is discussed. (MBR)

Discusses various aspects of computer-assisted learning. Focuses on human and technical problems associated with using computers and suggests possible solutions to the problems. Indicates that the greatest human problem (lack of programing skill) can be solved by use of DECAL, a programing language designed for individuals with no computer…

The difficulties that younger students experience in understanding concepts related to the use of variables in computer programming are examined through descriptions of two studies: (1) detailed case studies of six highly intelligent children--three fourth graders and three sixth graders--who learned to program in BASIC during 60 hours of…

Identifies obstacles to progress of computer-based education as hardware, communications systems, and courseware costs, and computer illiteracy, lack of cooperative vehicles, inadequate teacher preparation, public cynicism, education bureaucracy, and funding shifts. Costs of an experiment involving nine Florida schools using PLATO with legislative…

Discusses problems with integrating computers into college curricula from both student and faculty perspectives. A lack of faculty computer literacy is discussed; learning the process of computer use versus the purposes for computer use is addressed; the interaction between faculty, students, and computers is considered; and possible solutions are…

Arguing that computer science is not a survival skill although computer literacy may be and acceptance of computers definitely is, this paper recommends that any curricular changes involved in the implementation of computer education programs should adapt the computer to the larger educational goals of the schools, and separate the computer as a…

Discusses the current plan to introduce computer literacy into Soviet schools; examines the resources needed (hardware, software, personnel) to carry out the plan; examines the directions Soviet research on educational applications of computers is likely to take; and looks at factors that may influence the success of the program. (EM)

This report describes an interactive video system developed by Active Learning Systems which utilizes a cable television (TV) network as its delivery system to transmit computer literacy lessons to high school and college students. The system consists of an IBM PC, Pioneer LDV 4000 videodisc player, and Whitney Supercircuit set up at the head end…

Reports on a long-range study examining the developments resulting from the introduction of microcomputers in large city and suburban school districts. Policy questions addressed include implementation plans for microcomputer use, teacher training, districtwide curriculum planning and development, goals of computer activities, student access, and…