The current status of information utilities that are designed to hook into personal computers by telephone is reviewed. The companies, features, and problems associated with these growing services are detailed. The services provided by these utilities are viewed as substantial enough to be worthwhile to many personal computer users. (MP)

Computer technology as it affects home and family life is explored. Elements of this technology which are examined include electronic fund transfers (EFT), consumer rights and responsibilities relating to use of EFT, working at home via computer, housing design, costs of computerizing the home, and computerized aids for the handicapped. (CT)

This report examines the exploration and implementation of a multi-faceted approach to the use of computers in the instructional setting in the Worthington (Ohio) School District. Section I presents major steps which occurred during the 1981-82 and 1982-83 school years. These include formation of task forces, descriptions of major ways in which…

Presents preliminary findings from the "Second National Survey of Instructional Uses of School Computers." Areas explored include how many teachers regularly use computers with students, what subjects computer-using teachers teach, who gets to use school computers (boys or girls), and other areas. (JN)

Highlights the advantages of word processors and spelling checkers in improving student writing skills. Explains how spelling checkers work and describes the types of available checkers. Also provides lists of Apple, IBM, and Commodore word processors and checkers. (ML)

Surveyed science educators to determine (1) if colleges and universities are providing science teachers with computer-oriented training and content-dependent applications and (2) what role science educators have in this training. A majority of respondents provide microcomputer opportunities for both preservice and inservice teachers. (JN)

Presents results of a survey of engineering colleges (372 forms returned from 167 schools) on such aspects of computer education as computer credits required for graduation, microcomputers/mainframes used, languages required in beginning/advanced courses, and other areas. Includes recommendations for computer instruction based on survey responses.…

Describes studies conducted at a French university to evaluate microcomputer software used in computer assisted instruction. Results of questionnaires completed by a sample of 150 students in beginning computing courses are analyzed to determine how such courseware can be improved, and evaluation versus validation is discussed. (LRW)

A survey of computer education in engineering colleges was conducted in 1981 and the results reported in EJ 287 351. A follow-up survey conducted in 1984 asked many of the same questions to identify trends. Results of this survey with comparisons to the 1981 survey are presented and discussed. (JN)

Discusses why computer assisted instruction did not work in many classrooms, how older people have fought the new technology, and why implementation of computer technology as part of training has been slow. Also examines uses of the videodisc and microcomputer and the trainer's role. (CT)

Discusses factors to be considered in the selection of microcomputers for school use (components, cost, reliability, serviceability, who will use them, applications, input and output requirements, processing, storage, etc.), and describes the development of a computer area for a multiple activity lab. (CT)

Describes an activity for elementary school students that allows them to manipulate computer hardware. College students volunteered as trainers; and two workstations were used, one to teach students how to attach peripheral devices (e.g., keyboard, monitor, and printer) and one to teach how to remove a disk drive and the controller card. (LRW)

The Dade County Public Schools (Florida) Department of Basic Skills (DBS) computer education program was evaluated. Education Consolidation Improvement Act (ECIA) Chapter II funds were sought for maintenance of existing school computers; establishment of software consortium; and the acquisition of additional microcomputer equipment. The project…

The needs of Saddleback College for computer facilities were assessed to develop a master plan for an integrated data processing system that would satisfy both student educational needs and the administrative needs of the community college district. An analysis of computer facilities indicated that each individual division of the college had…

This report examines the achievement and enrollment of students at the Central Computers Unlimited Magnet High School in Kansas City, Missouri, through its third year of operation. The school offers special emphasis in computer science and technology including programming, maintenance, and operations. The evaluation design focuses on the…