The information age requires flexibility rather than technical specialization and therefore liberal arts education should be more in demand. Humanities vs. technology, and ethical implications are discussed. The most important response of the liberal arts college is that of planning. (MLW)

Describes a study that used a staff development program on computer technology to examine computer anxiety and other factors related to resistance to computers among library personnel. The discussion covers determinants of computer anxiety that were identified and the effects of anxiety on workshop participation. (16 notes with references)…

A study based on the classical theory of innovation determined what faculty members were opinion leaders concerning computer-related innovation and enlisted their assistance in training other faculty. The project led to development of a core group of faculty leaders providing individualized peer support and leadership in innovation. (MSE)

The attitudes of two samples of 2,105 eighth and twelfth grade students in British Columbia and China toward computer studies, science, and writing were surveyed and compared. Results are discussed. (Author/MT)

A mailed questionnaire completed by 86 parents of preschool and kindergarten children showed overall positive attitudes toward computers and computer use by young children with more positive attitudes among those parents whose children used computers in school. Significant factors were educational level of parents and family income. (JHZ)

Parents of 62 children enrolled in a private school for young gifted students completed a questionnaire designed to assess home use of computers, as well as parental concerns and expectations for appropriate concurrent and future computer use in educational settings. Familiarity with computers increased perceptions of their beneficial educational…

Traces the evolution and development of computer use and reviews the circumstances that influenced the selection of computing resources at liberal arts colleges. Characterizes the time eras of the computer age and projects factors that could influence computer policy and equipment choice. (ML)

A six-step method was used to evaluate and revise a computer literacy course for preservice teachers at Kansas State University. Sex equity concepts were integrated into all aspects of the course as a means of influencing attitudes and behavior. (MT)

Presents case studies of efforts by Nigeria, Morocco, and Argentina to introduce computers in primary and secondary education. Lessons learned from these experiences are discussed and educational needs are identified: program expansion; subtle introduction of microcomputers to teachers; organizational/national literacy campaign; and review of…

Reviews options for training individuals to use microcomputers (courses and workshops, books/media packages, software producer documentation, and computer disk-based training) and discusses the evaluation of training packages, including instructional design and technical considerations. A selective list of companies that provide training is…

Points out difficulties associated with teaching introductory computer programing courses, discussing the importance of computer programing and explains activities associated with its use. Possible solutions to help teachers resolve problem areas in computer instruction are also offered. (ML)

Reviews the debate in the literature concerning what is meant by computer literacy, with some authors arguing it implies knowledge about computers and others using the term synonymously with computer programing, and points out that staff development goals in computer literacy can differ widely according to which definition is utilized. (MBR)

Introduces special series of articles on females and computers. Discusses women's involvement in early computer history and possible reasons for and consequences of sex differences in computer applications including the computer as object of study, recreational device, or general purpose tool. (SA)

Provides abstracts of selected papers presented at EdCompCon '84. Topics addressed include: what features educators want in educational software; effects of teaching method on student performance by sex in a computer literacy course; implementation and evaluation of a university microcomputer laboratory; and implementation and evaluation of PLATO…

Presents questions to be asked when evaluating the efficacy of audiovisual products designed to increase computer literacy of students in classroom situations and suggests that continuing research is also needed to fully evaluate these products. (MBR)