The Coach system, a computer simulation of a human tutor, was constructed with the goal of obtaining a better understanding about how a tutor interprets the student's behavior, diagnoses difficulties and gives advice to a student learning a simple computer programming language. Coach is based on a hierarchy of active schemas representing the…

Describes the current use and potential of the LOGO programing language in a variety of educational situations. (JL)

This three-chapter guide provides simple explanations about BASIC programming for a teacher to use in a classroom situation, and suggests procedures for a "hands-on" course. Numerous examples are presented of the questions, problems, and level of understanding to expect from first-time, adult users (ages 13 and up). The course materials…

The author stresses that students need a thorough understanding of certain mathematical ideas in order to write adequate computer programs. He presents some examples using BASIC and LOGO and discusses writing programs as a mathematical exercise and using mathematics in programing. (MNS)

In three parts, this booklet provides elementary teachers with definitions of essential computer terminology and examines instructional uses of computers and computer-related activities. Terms defined are computer, interactive computing, computer hardware, computer software, and programming languages. Part 2 explores the main categories of the…

Differences in computer languages are noted. Symbol-based languages offer some distinct advantages over number-based languages, both in the form and the content of the student's interaction with the computer. Some of these advantages are explored and their applications to teaching mathematics described. (MNS)

Student projects that involve writing generative grammars in the computer language, "LOGO," are described in this paper, which presents a grammar-running control structure that allows students to modify and improve the grammar interpreter itself while learning how a simple kind of computer parser works. Included are procedures for…

This resource guide for teachers suggests activities for 20 instructional sessions for elementary children, particularly those in grades 3-6, to introduce them to the LOGO computer language. It can be used with five LOGO versions: Apple, Atari, MIT, Texas Instruments, and TRS. For each session, the guide covers objectives, concepts/skills,…

This plan for a 3-week unit on computer literacy is designed to acquaint students with the computer, what it is, what it can and cannot do, its impact on society, and career opportunities. The students learn to use the computer through interaction with a canned program, and write a short program using the BASIC language. The plan indicates what to…

Designed to provide a starting point for the teacher without computer experience, this booklet deals with both the "how" and the "when" of computers in education. Educational applications described include classroom uses with the student as a passive or an active user and programs for the handicapped; the purpose of computers…

Presented are three computer projects: vector analysis, electric field intensities at various distances, and the Biot-Savart law. Programing suggestions and project results are provided. One month is suggested for each project. (MVL)

Describes the use of computers in a comparative history course. Outlines course objectives and stresses the incorporation of computers into hypothesis formulation. Discusses available software packages and the pros and cons of each. Concludes with further recommendations for the use of computers in the classroom. (RW)

This booklet is provided as a guide to teachers working with learning disabled (LD) students who are interested in using computers as a teaching tool. The computer is presented as a powerful option to enhance educational opportunities for LD children. The author outlines the three main modes in educational computer use (tutor, tool, and tutee) and…

Identifies and proves two theorems related to expressing rational numbers in decimal form for any natural base m>1. Includes two BASIC computer programs with sample runs. (MVL)

Discusses dimensionality in Euclidean geometry. Presents methods to produce fractals using LOGO. Uses the idea of self-similarity. Included are program listings and suggested extension activities. (MVL)