This paper examines some of the applications of computers in education, focusing on the political and people problems involved. Through this approach it is hoped that superintendents, principals, data processing specialists, and scholars might develop a better awareness and understanding of how to assess the use of computers in school systems. The paper demonstrates that computers in education must have specific and systematic objectives and be able to demonstrate better ways of allocating resources or making decisions. Planning for computers is also required, and both educational administrators and computer personnel must be aware of the political processes involved in introducing computers into school districts. An awareness that computers have serious consequences inthe politics of school districts should lead educational administrators and computer personnel to see a need to reexamine the assumptions of computers in education and perhaps increase the potential of computers in educational improvement. A bibliography is provided. (Author/DN)