With microcomputers becoming more readily available and the forecast for a growing need for a computer literate society, business education teachers should be ready and willing to accept the challenge of preparing students for the information age. (Author)

A beginning computer course emphasizing hands-on experiences with personal and educational computer tool applications was designed for preservice teachers at Iowa State University. Students' self-assessments of their abilities rose significantly during the course, whereas their self-assessed computer anxiety declined. (MT)

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…

Describes a computer art program in a South Carolina school district that helps students become computer literate through the use of computer graphics. (MD)

Cites books, journals, articles, and speeches covering the gamut from computer literacy as a national crisis to a current listing of popular computer camps, educational computing, library role, and staff training. Primary focus is on microcomputers, but several less recent articles are oriented to computers in general. (MBR)

Explores what can be done with computers now and in the future. (PD)

There is great potential for making serious mistakes when microcomputers are being considered for use in business education courses. A microcomputer must be viewed as a teaching aid, not an end in itself. It is incumbent upon the teacher to be thoroughly familiar with the computer and its functions before automatically adding it to the classroom.…

One training center overcomes "computerphobia" by using people-oriented trainers working one on one with the computer. People need to learn to be boss of their computers. Recommendations include: giving the computer a "dumb" name, and reading the manual every three months. (MD)

Describes the facilities and programs of two major hands-on learning centers for children: the Capitol Children's Museum in Washington, D.C. and Sesame Place in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Computer-oriented activities are emphasized. A table describing several other hands-on learning centers accompanies the text. (JL)

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)

Explains how to become more knowledgeable about using resources available on Internet. Four main areas are discussed: (1) print media resources; (2) learning to use a personal computer effectively, including the maintenance of hard disks; (3) electronic mail; and (4) interactive networking. Current and future improvements to make networks more…

Desktop personal computers do not appear to have increased productivity, largely because employees are not being trained properly. An effective training plan includes high quality internal training staff, connection with business objectives, and focus on career development. (SK)

Describes a structured method for writing and formatting lessons on using computers. Steps include applying the whole-part-whole model, selecting illustrations, and using clear, accurate instructions. (JOW)

The explosion of special-purpose computing devices--Internet appliances, handheld computers, wireless Internet, networked household appliances--challenges business educators attempting to provide computer literacy education. At a minimum, they should address connectivity, expanded applications, and social and public policy implications of these…