This paper describes the way in which a child is introduced to LOGO, which is both a programming language and an environment or a way of thinking about computers and about learning. After a brief description of the devices used by LOGO, the process of acquainting a student with the system is explained. The strong anthropomorphization of components…

Two studies (N=56) assessed an instruction program designed to teach elementary school children a complex computer-programming skill--how to debug LOGO graphics and listing-processing programs. The use of a precise computer simulation model proved to be the crux of the instructional model's success. (TJH)

This paper is a report of a pilot project in which a microcomputer was placed in a sixth grade classroom for eight weeks for the purpose of developing logical thinking skills. Students were first given instruction on how to program the APPLE II microcomputer to draw color graphics designs; they were then given similar problems to solve using the…

Discusses the rich potential of Logo (a computer programing system for children) and particularly LogoWriter (its word processor) as learning tools in the language arts. Cautions against their use as rote exercises. (SR)

It is more important for children to learn concepts in mathematics than to be able to perform automatic computational functions. By permitting manipulation of the relationships among visible objects, computer graphics can make it easier for students to grasp concepts and can serve as an essential ingredient in effective computer-assisted…

A 10-week project conducted with 12 gifted 4th and 5th grade students (10 boys and 2 girls) examined the effectiveness of the Logo computer programming language as a tool for helping students understand some basic principles of physics. Three assumptions were tested: (1) motivated elementary school students can learn both turtle graphics and word…

This discussion of the advantages and limitations of raster graphics systems points out that until recently, most computer graphics systems have been oriented toward the display of line drawings, continually refreshing the screen from a display list of vectors. Developments such as plasma panel displays and rapidly declining memory prices have now…

Discussion of the development of educational software for reading instruction focuses on seven misconceptions that reflect a misunderstanding of the reading process and a misapplication of the principles of instructional design to the teaching of reading. Highlights include electronic text versus printed text; sound-symbol correspondence;…

Describes the advantages in having children develop their own art rather than downloading images or clip art from computers or the Internet. Topics include developing art skills; learning through creating; self-expression; self-confidence gains; observation skills; and creativity and problem solving. (LRW)

Arguing that females need instruction in visuo-spatial skills before adolescence, when they begin to lag behind males in the development of these skills that are so strongly correlated with success in technical careers, this paper discusses the use of the three-dimensional and spherical graphics of ExperLOGO to develop spatial skills in students…

Suggestions for using microcomputers in statistics instruction are described, with programs that a seven-year-old could write using LOGO. (MNS)

This discussion of the impact of computers on education focuses on microcomputer developments since 1975, the advantages of microcomputers over other computers, some innovative computer based activities in the United States, and the principal inhibitors to effective use of computers in schools. Four references are listed. (CHC)

Discusses the use of an optional computer graphics laboratory that has been successful with at-risk elementary school students. The role of art with at-risk students is discussed, laboratory facilities are described, the interaction of students from different grade levels is discussed, and program effectiveness is assessed. (three references) (LRW)

Describes ways computers are used in the art education program of one elementary school. Illustrates how computers become centers where students learn to use the computer as a tool with which to experiment and make choices. The results of these experiments are then applied to their art work. (KO)

Describes a program that used the concept of cross-age tutoring to introduce computers to kindergarten students with the help of sixth graders. The use of FunWriter and other software is described, the importance of graphics is emphasized, and benefits to both groups of students are discussed. (LRW)