In August 1984, each member of the entering freshman class at Clarkson University received a Zenith Data Systems Z-100 PC desktop computer. Although there have been some problems (such as losing homework due to one power failure), results of a student survey indicate overall positive attitudes toward the experience. (JN)

Describes instructional use of a microcomputer version of the WORLD2 global population-ecology simulation. Reactions of students and instructors are discussed and a WORLD2 simulation assignment is appended. The BASIC version used by the author runs on Apple II, DOS 3.3, with 80 column board. (MBR)

Describes the features of TOPO, HERO, RB5X, and Tasman Turtle, personal robots used in elementary and secondary schools and colleges to introduce concepts of artificial intelligence, advanced high school and college computer science, and elementary level programming. Mechanical arms are also briefly mentioned. (MBR)

Examines the use of personal computers (PCs) in the introductory sociology course. Discusses the functional strengths and weaknesses of PCs. Describes the use of PCs in preparing and presenting visual material, teaching basic concepts and strategies, illustrating analytical storylines, and engaging students in problem solving. Suggests additional…

Six teachers who won microcomputers in a contest sponsored by "Instructor" report on their first year with the new machines. Computer programs and related class activities are discussed. (PP)

Students in a remedial composition course at St. Olaf College were required to write all their papers on a microcomputer. It was assumed that text editing would be useful not only in the writing and revision processes, but also in building both confidence and morale as students mastered its techniques. The assignments were explained on Monday, and…

Describes a package of computer programs developed to implement an oil exploration game that gives undergraduate students practical experience in applying theoretical principles of petroleum geology. The programs facilitate management of the game by the instructor and enhance the learning experience. (Author/MBR)

Describes a method of improving teacher performance by making the instructor more aware of the consequences of his/her teaching. The system uses a Pet microcomputer with student response pads and an interface box to gather and summarize student reactions during ongoing instruction for comparison with a tape of the presentation. (JJD)

Since basic writers tend to learn best when only a few skills are presented at a time, composition teachers should introduce these students to word processing and writing simultaneously, demonstrating word processing commands as they complement the writing process. For instance, the use of the insert key can be presented when students need to…

Summarizes results of a study measuring eighth- and twelfth-grade students' attitudes toward computers. Sex and age differences, computer literacy course impact, and correlation of student attitudes toward computers and mathematics and science are assessed. A table giving means and standard deviations of responses to survey items is included. (MBR)

Study of algebra students' response to availability of optional interactive computer graphing lessons analyzed responses of both users and non-users. Information sought included number of lessons completed, students' opinions of value and difficulty of lessons, whether students felt threatened by computer use, and relationship of gender and age to…

Investigates the benefits of using a single personal computer and a projection system to teach undergraduate statistics. Identifies the required hardware and software, as well as the educational objectives and methods. Maintains that this method allows for immediate assessment and feedback. (MJP)

Two repeated-measures designs with 15 speech-delayed children (ages 2-8) and 5 case studies were completed to compare tabletop management at early and late stages of the response development phase with 2 computer-assisted drill-and-practice activities, 1 of which involved fantasy. The three intervention modes were equally effective, efficient, and…

Explores the changes wrought in subject discipline classroom cultures by the introduction of computers. Discovered different adaptations and approaches among the subject discipline cultures. Art, technology, and family studies adjusted easier than social studies. Social studies teachers often felt computer instruction stole time away from content…