Recent research indicates that computers can raise student achievement, but when used the wrong way, they can do more harm than good. The educational benefits of computers are greatest when they are used in sophisticated ways. Any professional development with computers leads to gains in student achievement. Most schools are not using computers in…

In 1995, the Congressional Office of Technology Assessment (OTA) reported that substantial numbers of teachers report little or no use of computers for instruction. This paper discusses technology education for preservice teachers at Peabody College of Vanderbilt University, examining changes the school has made in technology training for…

Suggests that technology tends to be more attractive to males and that females who do not take leadership development in technological skills will have limited employment opportunities. Presents middle school and high school educational objectives and strategies for developing leadership and technology skills for more equitable work and home…

Examines connections between literacy education as a social activity involving various levels of social relationships and the world of technology and computers, discussing recent research on the social and cultural nature of reading and writing, applying the discussion to the use of computers in classrooms, and concluding that computers in the…

The process of developing an online course through Women's International Electronic University revealed constraints many women face in continuing education participation, especially regarding family and work. Course developers faced challenges of teaching less technologically literate students through a technical medium, cost-recovery constraints,…

Analyzes data on exposure to and use of computers by students, focusing on gender-related differences. Provides information on frequency and duration of computer use, computer experiences, computer interests, attitudes toward computers, and emotional responses while using computers. Supports the assumption of gender-related differences, but not…

A survey of university Ph.D. faculty (biologists and social scientists) investigated the relationship between Internet use and computer use (experience and perceived expertise), experience with Internet use, perceived expertise of Internet use, and perceived utility of the Internet. Survey showed that skilled computer users were more likely to…

Introduces a causal model which links measures of computer experience, computer-related attitudes, computer-related confidence, and perceived computer-based knowledge. The causal model suggests that computer use has a positive effect on perceived computer self-confidence, as well as on computer-related attitudes. Questionnaires were administered…

Stresses the difference between technological and technical knowledge, starting with the distinction of natural science, engineering science (technology) and engineering practice (technics). Discusses the relationship between science and technology. The classification of knowledge types is used for determining which kind of knowledge may seem…

Defines information literacy and describes the "Information Literacy IQ (Institutional Quotient) Test" of the Association of School Librarians (ACRL). Lists and describes online sources for basic materials on information literacy, information literacy-skills models, information about information literacy, and books on information…

How did educators become enslaved to networked computers and mesmerized by iridescent screens? The computer encourages endless acquisitions, some motivated by intellectual avarice, others by petty jealousies incited by colleagues raving about the latest "innovation." How much computer literacy is sufficient? What other literacies must…

Reports a study that examined the attitudes, experiences, and skills of students entering a typical introductory college computing course. Survey data indicated that students had generally positive attitudes toward computers. Computer anxiety was greater among females. Most students viewed themselves as moderately competent with computers. (SM)

Reports on methodological developments in a project to assess the adoption of the Web by publishers of business information for electronic commerce. Describes the approach used on a sample of 20 business publishers to identify five clusters of publishers ranging from traditionalist to innovator. Distinguishes between adopters and nonadopters of…

Discusses changing computer literacy in relation to academic computing. Describes programs at various universities that ensure students have technological and communication skills to be able to apply information-related tools; considers how and when students need computer literacy skills; how to support students' computer literacy; and future…

Describes the prominent place of teacher training in the Duncanville (Texas) Independent School District's technology planning. Research based on teacher post-test and survey results overwhelmingly concludes that professional development for teachers is an essential ingredient for effectively integrating technology in instruction. (MLH)