Summarizes the characteristics and special features in a variety of mainframe, minicomputer, and microcomputer systems; discusses the applicability of each in school instruction; provides information about hardware, instructional capabilities, courses, and curricula available from computer manufacturers/publishers; and discusses future uses and…

Considers the impact of learning to program upon the intellectual and personal development of children. The excitement of computer mastery, the usefulness of programing as an introduction to "real world" problem solving, and computer programing as an aid to increased understanding of subject matter are discussed. (JL)

Suggests that computer expertise is becoming an irrepressible force in the business environment and that the ability to use a personal computer may be a key to success for young executives in the 1980's. (Author/JN)

Discusses various aspects of what is implied by the term "computer literacy," suggesting that competence with computers comes from using computers as machines, as a clerk doing data entry does; as tools, as a manager doing financial analysis does; and as creative instruments, as a writer or professional programer does. (Author/JN)

Advantages of having children use microcomputers at school and home include learning about sophisticated concepts early in life without a great deal of prodding, playing games that expand knowledge, and becoming literate in computer knowledge needed later in life. Includes comments from parents on their experiences with microcomputers and…

Describes a curriculum guide for teaching computer literacy in the primary grades. Computer literacy is divided into two topics, computer awareness and programing. For each topic, the guide lists learning objectives, introductory activities, and suggested curriculum areas for teaching the topic. (JJD)

These guidelines for setting up instructional computing and computer literacy programs using microcomputers include consideration of program planning, hardware selection and purchase, and faculty development. (Author/JJD)

Discusses mini/microcomputers in education including ways computers can be used in schools, computer literacy, positions for and against classroom use of computers, computers as agents of instruction (devices to deliver instruction), computers as objects of instruction (teaching about computers and computer programing), and including the author's…

Describes how microcomputers are used to teach science, mathematics, and computer literacy in a two-year course for secondary students in San Diego. Skills are reinforced through drill and practice, simulations, and program writing. Specific skills and the sequence in which they are taught are discussed. (AM)

Discusses technology-related staff development at Winona Middle School. Describes media entry-level exploration classes and other more advanced classes on electronic searching, Internet search strategies, using various tools, lessons design, and multimedia skills classes. Presents ideas on how teachers can provide meaningful staff development.…

Examines the impact of technology on educational effectiveness in the United States as measured by the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) and the Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS). Presents five items from NAEP and TIMSS tests that may favor students with technology experience. Concludes that further…

A study of 148 male and 161 female 7-12 graders tested the hypothesis that computer attitudes and computer confidence positively affect each other and that both positively affect commitment to computer learning. Contrary to expectations, computer confidence had a negative effect on commitment to learning. Includes an attitudes and self-confidence…

Describes an effective early stage computing course that provides skills needed by undergraduate chemical engineering students. Material is presented in forms that allow students to follow the logic involved and to understand relationships between the computer, programming, numerical computing, computing software packages, and practical skills for…

Examines the relationship between computer use and students' science achievement based on the data from the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA). Results show that it is not computer use itself that has a positive or negative effect on the science achievement of students, but the way in which computers are used. (Author/SOE)

To determine how the Internet is being used in education, researchers surveyed newsgroup participants. Questions concerned demographics and usage. Responses totaled 147. Results indicate that there is a solid foundation of users who are optimistic about the future despite hardware and software problems and concerns about offensive material. Seven…