Computers are both understandable and controllable. Educators need some understanding of a computer's cognitive profile, component parts, and systematic nature in order to set it to work on some of the teaching tasks that need to be done. Much computer-related vocabulary is discussed. (MP)

The author describes how computers can be used to teach fifth- and sixth-grade students and explains ways the machines can be used in instruction. Use of computer games, tutoring, drill and practice, simulations, and other applications are discussed, and key computer terms are defined. (PP)

Reviews such computer assisted instructional techniques as simulations, tutorials, and educational games, suggesting that educational software and computer-literate teachers are needed before electronic education becomes pervasive. Additional areas addressed include programming languages, providing sample BASIC, LOGO, SMALLTALK, and SOPHIE…

Addresses various issues in educational computing, suggesting that the real crisis facing schools is not a software shortage but a hardware crunch accompanied by misconceptions about how computers can help children learn. (Author/JN)

The Governor of California discusses the role/importance of computer science education and proposed steps to support the cause of computer-aided education in California. Proposals include establishing computer demonstration centers, providing stipends for teachers studying computer-aided instruction, and funding of summer institutes and exemplary…

Presents five examples of successful computer oriented programs in high schools, a community college, and a state program. They focus on computer literacy, agricultural education, benefits to students and teachers, state delivery systems, and TICCIT (Time-Shared, Interactive, Computer-Controlled, Information Television). (CT)

Discusses developments in computer education at the elementary secondary level in Tasmania, South Australia, and West Australia. Six references are listed. (LLS)

Responses to a recent survey of children's impressions of personal computers are provided. The views about computers in the classroom are thought to clearly show the ease pupils have with such machines in their daily lives. The students quoted are deemed enthusiastic, confident, and creative users. (MP)

Illustrates how the "Big Six Skills" model of information problem solving (Task Definition, Information Seeking Strategies, Location and Access, Use of Information, Synthesis, and Evaluation) is a perfect match to the influx of technology in student research. Outlines two typical assignments that focus the Big Six perspective on the…

Discusses media literacy in Canada's schools according to the country's provinces and territories. Outlines nine factors crucial to the successful development of media literacy in secondary schools. Notes that Ontario possesses most factors becoming a world leader in terms of media literacy. Describes the formation of CAMEO (Canadian Association…

Since 1993, an Israeli junior high school has been conducting a regional computer communications class with a special multimedia-based curriculum. Students express what they know via text, videos, pictures, sound, and animation and demonstrate their ability to apply knowledge in research and documentary projects. Although staff encountered some…

Presents a planning checklist for staff technology training. Includes forming a committee and developing proposals, contacting pertinent people, handling publicity, sending invitations, distributing schedules/registration information, arranging for equipment, purchasing prizes, conducting preliminary checks on equipment and software, ordering…

Suggests that the dearth of computer science instruction in secondary schools may be due to a lack of teacher and administrator training. Proposes a program to retrain high school teachers of science and mathematics to teach computer science. The program would run two summers and contribute to a master's degree. (Author/AIM)

Describes the work of librarians at Illinois State University in teaching faculty about the Internet through a series of librarian-initiated and faculty-initiated projects. Explains how librarians continued their role as information providers, adapting to the situations faced by the faculty, whose information needs did not always match their…

To provide college students with a conceptual model of how their network connects to the Internet, and enable them to understand the principles of sending e-mail and using other telecomputing resources, signs were created using a graphics program with different icons representing each network component. The signs were then attached to students who…