Educators can use different metaphors to achieve an initial understanding of computers: the computer-as-person, tool, brain, map, vitamin, palette, educator, and catalyst. We should not ask what computers can do, but rather, what do we want computers to do? (KC)

An operational definition of computer literacy for higher education is offered after reviewing various views concerning literacy and computer literacy. Some writers have specified levels of expertise beyond that of nonuser, ranging between the casual end-user and the programmer. Other definitions emphasize the computer as a tool and the importance…

Expresses concern about society's growing dependence on computers, while acknowledging the benefits they provide. Feels that computer use emphasizes the quantity, rather than the quality, of time spent on a task. Warns of the problems resulting from cost barriers to computer access facing many families. (DMM)

The most common approach to computer education is the computer literacy model which suggests that students need some basic familiarity with computers to compete in the job market or to become informed citizens. Discusses why this model for computer education should be rejected by professional educators. (JN)

The dual conception of literacy as functional knowledge and communication skills has provided the parameters of the debate on computer literacy, which has focussed on what type of knowledge is necessary, and what level, if any, of programming should be taught. These arguments and definitions, however, reflect a particular view of epistemology,…

Examines how computers can contribute to the educational goal of literacy and considers the implications of the introduction of computers for changes in school curricula. Looks at the characteristics of computers that make them potentially useful in learning and their substantial influences on students' and teachers' use of reading and writing.…

Three suggestions for schools in the face of computerization are discussed. Educators should: (1) take a critical attitude; (2) raise questions of value, as well as of effectiveness; and (3) be alert to the transfer to education of computer language, and the constrictions that could result. (MT)

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)

Discusses methods of forecasting and reviews scenarios of the future of industrial arts that have been developed in this century. Suggests that industrial arts students of the future will develop industrial, career, and technological literacy through the use of computer-based simulation of systems. (SK)

Describes web literacy instruction developed and implemented in response to students' needs as part of an English-as-a-Foreign-Language academic skills preparation curriculum. The goals of the instruction are to introduce critical reading strategies and develop computer literacy skills. (Author/VWL)

This paper considers the discord that may arise in a teacher's thinking when there is a conflict between new technical innovations and the generally accepted aims and culture of teaching itself. Teachers share common ideas about what they do and why it is valuable; there tends to be agreement about what the collectively approved actions of…

The learning goals that inform service learning as a whole can contribute to the computers and writing field significantly. This paper demonstrates how two lines of inquiry can be furthered, community-based writing and computers and writing, through new data and critical reflection on learning goals and communication tools. The paper presents a…

The schools of today and tomorrow must answer the challenge of increasing technology with firm purpose, clarity of objectives, and an immense awareness of the necessity for humanistic response. Educational systems can meet this challenge through the development and use of appropriate curriculum by motivated and trained teachers and administrators.…

Some basic concerns about the proliferation of computers in schools are stated: (1) Educational goals for children should be established as a first priority, then what computers can do to help achieve those goals should be examined; (2) Very few pieces of software are useful in schools, and teacher education programs should explore what is needed…

Discusses the need for researchers to determine what should be tested and how when evaluating educational computing programs, describes efforts of Educational Testing Service's National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) to measure the impact of computers on achievement, and concludes that it will not be easy to evaluate computers' effects.…