As a baseline measurement of what is being learned about computers in California, a study, originally reported in "Student Achievement in California Schools: 1982-83 Annual Report," investigated the knowledge, attitudes, and experiences of a representative sample of 6th and 12th graders. The survey was developed by experts on computer technology drawn from the public school system, universities, and industry, and included questions based on objectives used with the Department of Defense Dependent Schools, attitude questions, background statements/questions to assess relevant prior knowledge of computers, and demographic questions. The sixth grade survey was given to a sample of students as part of the April 1982 administration of the California Assessment Program Survey of Basic Skills. Findings indicate that most students have had programming experience by the 12th grade and that programming experience was associated with markedly higher test scores. A large majority of students exhibit awareness of routine characteristics and uses of computers. Performance on programming objectives is low, however, and mastery of general knowledge is not much higher. Boys appear to have an advantage over girls in computer knowledge. This report includes 39 tables, 3 figures, and a 16-item reference list. (LMM)