Learning to program involves developing an understanding of two hierarchies of concepts. One hierarchy consists of data and extends from very literal data (which represents only itself) to very abstract data incorporating variable values in complex interrelationships. The other hierarchy consists of the operations performed on the data and extends…

Provides answers to nine myths about computers, including computers are invaluable for school and home use; programing experience means job security; teachers will develop their own software; computers make good teachers; computer experts will form an elite social class; and computers increase student achievement. (JN)

Foreign language teachers are encouraged to participate in developing computer courseware. Advantages include the potential for higher quality and more plentiful materials, increased confidence with computers, and the kind of discipline a computer affords in focusing on and organizing an exercise. (MSE)

Summarizes the results of research on oral and written language processes and lists problems with computer software that does not reflect that research. (AEA)

Defines eight software production stages, and argues that the key to the production of a higher quantity of reasonable quality software lies in development of support technologies to assist teachers in software development. Three approaches--software toolboxes, computer assisted instruction (CAI) program shells, and software CAI analysts--are…

Recent research and current trends in the field of computers and education are reflected in this collection of reviewed papers, tutorials, panels, project presentations and other sessions. More than 80 papers are grouped in the following topic areas: administrative applications, composition and literature, computing for the learning disabled or…

Three articles on the use of new technologies in education focus on (1) Digital Video Interactive (DVI) Technology and its value in designing and developing educational materials for children; (2) problem solving with computers by using functions; and (3) new information technology and educational change in Norway. (LRW)

The personal computer is sparking a major historical change in the way people learn, a change that could lead to the disappearance of formal education as we know it. The computer can help resolve many of the difficulties now crippling education by enabling expert teachers and curriculum developers to prepare interactive and individualized…

Although computerized instruction has been used in various educational areas for years, agricultural educators only recently started to consider its use in secondary vocational agricultural programs. Of the three roles possible for computerized instruction (CI)--tutor, tool, and tutee--only the tool role can be implemented profitably in…

This document consists of three parts. The first part is a report on a project conducted to develop computer software needed by vocational agriculture teachers in Texas. The report details the process used to assess and develop software, and provides guidelines that can be used by others in evaluating computer software for vocational agriculture…