Abstraction is a key concept in CS, one of the most fundamental ideas underlying CS and its practice. However, teaching this soft concept to novices is a very difficult task, as discussed by many CSE experts. This paper discusses this issue, and suggests a general framework for teaching abstraction in CS to novices, a framework that would fit into…

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)

Further validated the Konvalina, Stephens, Wileman (KSW) Computer Science Placement Test by administering it to 152 Philippine students. A practical procedure for placing students using the results of the KSW test is also included. This procedure has been successfully applied at the University of Nebraska (Omaha) for over two years. (JN)

The advancement of computer technology used for research is creating the need to change the way classes are taught in higher education. "Bringing Research Tools into the Classroom" has become a major focus of the work of the Office of Educational Innovation and Technology (OEIT) for the Dean of Undergraduate Education (DUE) at the…

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)

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)

Reports on performance aspects of educators' person-environment congruence as defined by Holland's occupational classification system. Concludes that the majority were of the Social, Conventional, or Enterprising types and oriented toward non-classroom use of computer literacy developed in the course. (RT)

A computer curriculum including literacy and programing skills is viewed as an example of a program which can easily provide both acceleration of the rate of learning and enrichment through development of higher-level thinking skills. A program used with fifth through eighth grade children in Tempe, Arizona is described. (MP)

Discusses a short computer program used in teaching the random (RND) function in the BASIC programming language. Focuses on the mathematical concepts involved in the program related to elementary probability. (JN)

Correlations derived from this study indicate that undergraduate students' (N=24) and graduate students' (N=18) performance in statistical methods is not strongly influenced by their aptitude in computer science. One implication is that no computer science prerequisite is necessary for courses utilizing statistical packages. (JN)

Explains the integrated approach implemented by James Madison University, Virginia, in enhancing computer literacy. Reviews the changes in the mathematics courses and provides topical listings and outlines of the courses that emphasize computer applications. (ML)

The history and projected future of advances in computer-based information technology are detailed along with the potential benefits and dangers of whole-scale use of this technology. (MP)

Points out the benefits of students using LOGO with problems dealing with vectors and matrices. Provides examples of performing linear algebraic computations in LOGO. (ML)

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)