Communications technology must advance to meet the need for improved information processing by the year 2000. Four major technologies are involved: computers and data processing, telecommunications and telephones, reprographics, and word processing. Each of the technologies shows growth in sales, applications, and usage. Facts and projections reveal that probably a 20-year gap exists between the technology and its applications in widespread use. Furthermore, technologies are blurring. Changes in communications technology have social implications in such areas as electronics and consumer finances, health issues related to terminals, the wired home, freedom of information and right to privacy, computer vulnerability, applications and gadgetry, and international concerns. As every individual and every job will be affected by computers, general education and career education (career guidance and vocational training) must integrate the computer as both an instructional tool and as a piece of work equipment. Vocational educators must acquire computer skills and use the computer in teaching job skills and managing the classroom, and vocational education programs must acquire computers and/or computer-powered equipment. (Reading recommendations are made for all vocational educators. Appendixes include articles on the computer and a bibliography of references.) (YLB)