The authors state that the need to define functional computer literacy is likely to be an ongoing one. They discuss computer literacy skills, barriers to universal application, comprehension skills, and mastery of the operating system. (CT)

Since LOGO was introduced at a 1981 National Council of Teachers of Mathematics conference, this computer language has spread through the schools and spawned Young People's LOGO Association groups throughout the United States and Canada. Teaching LOGO like other languages might alienate youngsters already at home with computer technology. (MLH)

Discusses Seymour Papert's ideas on learning LOGO, a computer programing language which creates a context for learning. Claims that LOGO has been unfairly judged and that criticisms are rooted in misunderstanding. Argues that curriculum research in LOGO should use a multidisciplinary, multimethod approach. Concludes that the true potential of LOGO…

Education courses in BASIC remain a foundation of teacher training for computer use. Such courses do little more than re-invent programming structures that are already available in such educational programming languages (EPLs) as PILOT and TEACH. While BASIC is the only general programming language that is both simple and powerful enough to enable…

Presents concerns from the literature relating to the effects of computer language learning, computer programing, and the cognitive consequences of computer assisted instruction. It is argued that further research is needed to address these issues if computers are to retain their place in education. Fifty-five references are listed. (MBR)

Discusses the use of computers by children, highlighting a definition of computer literacy, computer education in schools, computer software, microcomputers, programming languages, and public library involvement. Seven references and a 40-item bibliography are included. (EJS)

Discusses the rationale, aims, and objectives of introductory computer courses and suggests an improved approach to designing such courses to prepare pupils for a computer-based society and to improve problem solving through structured programing. Criteria for evaluating and choosing an appropriate programing language are listed. (EAO)

The 88 papers included in this publication are organized into seven groupings used as themes in the conference, "Computing Knows No Borders." The topics are: Administration (12 papers); Computer Studies (13 papers); Educational Tools (10 papers); Logo (7 papers); Software (9 papers); Special Education (8 papers); and Teaching (16…

Discussion of methods that can be used to teach beginner courses in computer literacy focuses on students aged 10-12. The value of using a programing language versus using a generic software package is highlighted; Logo and Prolog are reviewed; and the use of databases is discussed. (LRW)

Presents three tenets for a computer course that blends a skills course centered on programing language and its uses and an awareness course focusing on computer literacy. The tenets suggest focusing on well-established aspects of computing, emphasizing concepts, and centering on computer applications. (MBR)

Describes how informatics is being integrated into the Bulgarian schools' curriculum through the use of microcomputers, Logo, and appropriate software. A set of problems that could be used for introducing informatics is presented which is based on the programming notions of cycle, recursion, and coding. (LRW)

Argues that trends in upper elementary and higher education computer science programs should lead to programming as focus of high school computer curriculum, and reviews philosophies supporting teaching of programming. Advantages and disadvantages of using Pascal and other languages are discussed and compared. Teacher information sources on Pascal…

Designed to address the varied computer skill levels of college students, this proposed computer literacy course would be modular in format, with modules tailored to address various levels of expertise and permit individualized instruction. An introductory module would present both the history and future of computers and computing, followed by an…

Described and critiqued are two ideas which have proven valuable in teaching programming at the introductory level, the mental model and the programming plan. (PK)

Survey of informatics developments within Danish schools discusses the report of the Johnsen Committee, which was mandated to undertake an assessment of public teaching of informatics; computer education in primary schools, general secondary schools, and secondary vocational schools; computing capacity; situation in the municipality of Odense; and…