Computers have a legitimate place in early childhood classrooms, provided that attention is given to appropriate software, location, and access. Software should be meaningful, be relevant to the early childhood curriculum, and meet children's needs. Word processing is one of the most appropriate ways to introduce computers into early childhood…

Describes a project in which a group of primary school students tried out a range of IT activities using Xemplar Pocket Book computers. Demonstrates that they improved the quality and range of pupils' learning and supported literacy in science. Explains that pocket computers do not replace but complement the classroom PC. (Author/ASK)

The two components of this document are: (1) a brief position paper; and (2) a related but independent bibliography of references on using computers in reading/writing instruction. The paper presents six recommendations for the intelligent use of computers in the teaching of reading and composition, discussing the guidelines of the International…

Provides helpful tips regarding classroom use of computers in a cooperative-learning environment. Comments on student computer ratio, interdependence, individual accountability, heterogeneous grouping, shared responsibility, and good working relationships. (ZWH)

This document contains over 60 masters for creating overhead transparencies providing information on the Pennsylvania State University system and, in particular, the resources available for academic computing. The masters are presented in six categories: (1) Penn State; (2) Computer and Information Systems; (3) Center for Academic Computing; (4)…

Reviews software available to the classroom teacher for desktop publishing and describes specific classroom activities. Suggests using desktop publishing to produce large print texts for students with limited sight or for primary students.(NH)

Describes an electronic debate conducted by fifth and sixth grade classes in Pennsylvania. Students sent speeches to each other via electronic mail. In the process, they learned about working with a modem and bulletin board; they strengthened their research and writing skills and examined social issues. (SM)

Explains a microcomputer application that aids the academic advising process. Reports that this process makes students more responsible for their future and has beneficial effects on computer literacy, student recruitment, career and graduate school planning, early mentoring, and the quality of letters of recommendations and resumes. (KO)

Presents a method for using matrix algebra and computers to encode and decode secret messages. Provides examples of coding procedures, a short review of matrix multiplication, and a BASIC program for use with secret messages containing up to 1000 numbers. (RT)

Describes the use of microcomputers to enhance vocabulary instruction in content teaching. Reviews the types of software available. (JAD)

Discusses the reasons for careful evaluation of students' programs by a skilled programmer. Suggests that grades for programs must be partly based on quality factors such as clarity, organization, conciseness, and maintainability. (ASK)

Describes a way to use computers in teaching chemistry, in this case in a demonstration lesson on supercooling using a thermister in a game port to interface the computer with cooling phenyl salicylate. Discusses the advantages over the traditional method of instruction. (CW)

Provides examples of such statistical graphs as line, bar, picture and pie. Suggests uses of Logo Turtle Graphics in graph construction. Includes several program procedures for creating designs with the computer. (RT)

Elementary students can help turn the classroom book collection into a well-organized library using the classroom computer. In the process, they get practice in cooperative-learning groups as they work with both electronic and card catalogs. The article explains how to use computers to create an electronic catalog. (SM)

Elementary and secondary school teachers explain how they get the most out of their computer labs. Ideas including conferencing with the school's computer teacher, developing a new system for disks, planning a practice project to reinforce basic skills, setting up computer competency training, and supporting the curriculum. (SM)