This manual provides background materials for Project CIRCLE (Curriculum by Industry Review-Computers Link to Education), a competency-based curriculum developed to provide trainers or educators teaching short-term or long-term programs with a complete field-tested curriculum in microcomputer applications. Prefatory materials and acknowledgements…

The purpose of this practicum was to develop and implement a computer training series for early childhood professionals. Over a 10-month period, direct instructional presentations, scheduled lab periods for individual practice, and informal hands-on activities formed the framework for developing foundation skills. The skills involved were those…

This review of the literature begins by exploring the development of computer literacy as a discipline since its introduction in colleges and universities around 1965 and in economically privileged high schools around 1970. The impact of a conference sponsored by the National Science Foundation and Human Resources Research Organization in 1980 on…

This manual based on Menlo Park's experiences in participating in a nationwide experimental computer literacy project provides guidelines for the development and management of a ComputerTown. This project, which was begun in September 1981 in the Menlo Park Public Library, concentrates on providing public access to microcomputers through hands-on…

Alternative learning environments offering computer-related instruction are developing around the world. Storefront learning centers, museum-based computer facilities, and special theme parks are some of the new concepts. ComputerTown, USA! is a public access computer literacy project begun in 1979 to serve both adults and children in Menlo Park…

The Computer Bus Program (Compubus Program) of the Modesto City Schools (California) was evaluated to determine the effectiveness of the computer literacy program for fourth, fifth, and sixth grade students at eight elementary compensatory education schools. The program provided instruction on computer vocabulary, knowledge, and applications in a…

This paper describes the way in which a child is introduced to LOGO, which is both a programming language and an environment or a way of thinking about computers and about learning. After a brief description of the devices used by LOGO, the process of acquainting a student with the system is explained. The strong anthropomorphization of components…

An elementary school teacher recounts her reactions to a computer in her classroom, changing from initial resistance to gradual acceptance as she learned how useful it could be for her students' and her own needs. (CB)

The development of rudimentary programing skills during preservice and inservice teacher education programs appears to have substantial personal, educational, and professional benefits for teachers. This paper argues for the inclusion of programing skills as part of the effort to reform the teacher education curriculum. (Author/MT)

Traces the evolution of a microcomputer literacy course at Northwestern University and the implementation of a lab section that used historical content to teach computers. Describes the software used and the methods employed in teaching computer techniques using historical data and instruction. Advocates teaching more than simple word processing…

The author discusses how to teach database concepts to business students. He suggests using relevant databases with information related to jobs or student interests, so students can learn to use databases while searching for useful information. Several database topics and sources of data are suggested. (CH)

Discusses the list processing capabilities of Logo. Describes some examples of how to use this aspect of Logo to enhance computer literacy and English-language skills. (TW)

In an article reporting the results of a questionnaire, it was found that secretaries' knowledge of computers is bringing them expanded duties and higher-level responsibilities but not necessarily higher pay. It was found that secretaries are performing duties previously performed by managers. (CT)

The authors argue that definitions of computer literacy are too broad and that the term "computer competence" more usefully addresses questions of knowledge and skills. A taxonomy of computer competence, comprised of four levels, is proposed, and its uses for elementary through higher education are discussed. (MT)

Arts students should be introduced to computers in the nurturing setting of academe where they can experiment and conquer their anxieties. Programs at UCLA and other institutions suggest that artists and scientists are likely to grow closer as the computer becomes a tool on which both depend. (MLW)