A pair of abacuses is used to illustrate addition, subtraction (by adding complements), multiplication, and division, with simplified examples given to illustrate the various features of each operation. Also indicates how this information can help students understand computer operations. (JN)

This two-part article deals with the design and construction of a primitive Von Neumann computer using a logic design simulator. Describes the design of the computer memory and its register structure. Six layouts of the computer architecture are presented. Lists three references. (YP)

Considers three questions regarding computer science courses: (1) Can performance be predicted?; (2) Does a solid mathematical background provide the student with an advantage?; and (3) Is gender a factor in performance or aptitude? Reports a strong math background was related to achievement in a beginning course while gender was not related. (MVL)

Discusses the nature and uses of LOGO programing language with primary children. Sample program listings and the results obtained by primary children are included. (JN)

Iteration is the process of doing something repeatedly in a computer program. In LOGO, the most elementary form of iteration is provided by the REPEAT command. This paper explores how programers can use LOGO's extensibility to create more powerful iterative forms than those offered by the REPEAT command. (JN)

The nature of thinking is the subject of this second part in a series which is examining various topics and issues related to the controversy of whether or not computers can think. Suggests that intelligence is the ability to develop general ideas and not the ability to apply those ideas. (JN)

Describes a computer program used in an experiment in which the partial molal volumes of sodium chloride solutions are calculated as a function of concentration from densities measured with a pycnometer. The complete program listing (also available from the author on disk) and a sample run are included. (JN)

Describes various solutions to sequence problems using Logo programing language. Complete program listings are included when applicable. (JN)

LOGO tools are procedures which accomplish specific tasks. They can be furnished to students, along with suggestions for exploratory activities, or students can develop them. Several of these tools (program listings) with sample output are presented. (JN)

Within-group similarities and between-group differences are used to illustrate the socio-cultural nature of the concept-building process in highly collaborative computer science classrooms. Simultaneously, a social constructivist perspective is used to describe the individual aspects of this development. The study uses written explanations from…

Describes the use of a logic circuit simulator to design a computer in an introductory computer course. Discusses the design of a sequence generator, control circuits, and testing of a computer's instruction set. (YP)

Examines factors related to computer anxiety measured by the Computer Anxiety Index (CAIN). Achievement in two programing courses was inversely related to computer anxiety. Students who had a home computer and had computer experience before high school had lower computer anxiety than those who had not. Lists 14 references. (YP)

Discusses programs to provide a knowledge base and use the knowledge in a mode of artificial intelligence. Indicates that two methods of database storage are possible and opts to use a method using many data files while using a small RAM capacity. Lists several programs. (MVL)

This study reports that artistic and social vocational-personality characteristics are associated with greater anxiety and less involvement or success in mathematics and computer courses. A concept of population variability in computer anxiety which is associated with individual differences in vocational personality is supported. (MVL)

Describes a study to determine if a school district implementing an unfamiliar curricular change completed the same tasks as those using a model developed by Bishop. Reports that the district was more task oriented when confronted with an unfamiliar curricular change than previously reported. (MVL)