A study investigated whether students had used a microcomputer prior to taking a computer literacy class, which computer languages they knew and used, whether they thought the computer literacy course should be required, and whether they thought the class would help them to secure a teaching position. Undergraduate students at Ball State (Indiana)…

An elementary school teacher recounts her reactions to a computer in her classroom, changing from initial resistance to gradual acceptance as she learned how useful it could be for her students' and her own needs. (CB)

Traces the evolution of a microcomputer literacy course at Northwestern University and the implementation of a lab section that used historical content to teach computers. Describes the software used and the methods employed in teaching computer techniques using historical data and instruction. Advocates teaching more than simple word processing…

The author discusses how to teach database concepts to business students. He suggests using relevant databases with information related to jobs or student interests, so students can learn to use databases while searching for useful information. Several database topics and sources of data are suggested. (CH)

Discusses the list processing capabilities of Logo. Describes some examples of how to use this aspect of Logo to enhance computer literacy and English-language skills. (TW)

Today, undergraduate students enter college with increasingly more sophisticated computer skills compared to their counterparts of 20 years ago. However, instructors are still using traditional instructional strategies to teach this new generation. This research study examines strategies that instructors employ to teach introductory computer…

This study investigated elementary teachers' personal experience with computers in classroom instruction, identifying key causes of comfort or discomfort with computer use in the classroom. The study involved 10 elementary teachers who were part of a larger study on the same subject. In that larger study, researchers collected demographic data and…

Discussion of computer usage and familiarity focuses on an empirical study of college students that investigated the relationship between computer familiarity and cognitive ability. Results are reported that indicate a positive correlation between high scores on cognitive ability tests and computer usage, but no gender differences are reported.…

Offers 10 suggestions for improving professional development courses to encourage teachers to use technology in the classroom: offer training, give them technology to use at home, provide on-site technical support, support collaboration with colleagues, allow attendance at conferences, increase access time, encourage research, provide online…

Eight superintendents who are regular Internet cruisers write about their experiences. Most are not computer junkies but favor certain features, especially e-mail, to enhance communication with school community members and help accomplish district objectives. Listserv discussion groups keep these administrators apprised of educational trends (like…

Considers whether laptop and handheld computers will be able to replace printed textbooks in classrooms. Topics cover benefits of classroom computers, including the need for computer literacy; computer costs, including service contracts, theft, and the need for staff development; the problems with dated textbooks; publishers' concerns; and…

Presents a model that provides guidelines that colleges and universities can follow when including technology in their music-degree requirements. Discusses the role of technology in music education, especially as related to the National Association of Schools of Music guidelines. Includes a glossary of technical terms used in the article. (DSK)

In the fall of 2000, half the freshman class arrived at college with their own computers, proficient at using Windows, word-processing software, the Internet and electronic mail. The author offers a look at the computing lifestyles of freshmen on five college campuses. (JM)

Award-winning teachers, administrators, and educational support professionals (n=1,300) were surveyed about computer use. Only 69 did not have computer access at school, 105 did not at home; 20% had no computer experience. Computers were used most frequently for administrative tasks and Internet access. Obstacles to use in teaching included lack…

Notes that understanding what "free software" means and its implications for access and use of new technologies is an important component of the new literacies. Concludes that if free speech and free press are essential to the development of a general literacy, then free software can promote the development of computer literacy. (SG)