This report of a 1984 conference on the computer as a teaching tool provides summaries of presentations on the role of the computer in the teaching of science, mathematics, computer literacy, and language arts. Analyses of themes emerging from the conference are then presented under four headings: (1) The Computer and the Curriculum (the computer keeps learning connected to experience; the computer provides access to the underlying disciplines of subjects; the computer challenges the curricular status quo; and the computer aids implementation of the curriculum); (2) The Computer and Reality (computer-based models and simulations only imperfectly represent reality; a program may mask operations that students should experience to give depth and stability to their learning; and computers sometimes need to be used in conjunction with other, more concrete, experiences); (3) Perspectives on Teaching Practice (teaching is rooted in a teacher's own interests, need to understand, and social commitment; and teaching is, to a significant extent, a product of circumstance, not an entirely rational enterprise); and (4) Teachers' Professional Development (strategies and goals are needed for teacher training). The report concludes with a list of questions for further research. (11 references) (MES)