Discusses the "computerphobia" phenomenon, separating the valid reasons for some individual's anxiety about computers from their irrational fears. Among the factors examined are fear of breaking the computer, use of unclear documentation, lack of time for learning how to use the computer, and lack of computer knowledge. (JN)

Describes educational and noneducational activities at National Computer Camps, including typical costs, daily schedules, and computer curriculum. The curriculum (with elementary, intermediate, and advanced levels) concentrates on using personal computers to teach children to teach themselves. (Author/JN)

Describes a project which produced educational computer programs for PET microcomputers and use of computers in money management, in a filter company, and in a certified public accountant firm (which cancelled a contract for a time-sharing service). Also describes a computerized eye information network for ophthalmologists. (JN)

Discusses various issues related to computerized tutoring, focusing on Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) tutoring programs. Indicates that although there is a market for the programs, there is insufficient evidence to judge their effectiveness. (JN)

Provides a general review of the field of Computer-Aided Design Software including specific reviews of "Autosketch,""Generic CADD,""Drafix 1 Plus,""FastCAD," and "Autocad Release 9." Brief articles include "Blueprint for Generation,""CAD for Every Department,""Ideas…

Discusses the educational and personal uses of microcomputers by children (as young as 3 1/2-years-old) and the types of programs they use, produce, and enjoy. Includes a list of practical tips on mastering computer literacy. (JN)

Discusses constructive ways to use microcomputers as educational aids. Areas considered include software packages with graphics capabilities to help students visualize their work, programs fostering skill development (including problem-solving), microcomputer rentals, use of computers to learn programing languages, and others. (JN)

Suggests that computer expertise is becoming an irrepressible force in the business environment and that the ability to use a personal computer may be a key to success for young executives in the 1980's. (Author/JN)

Discusses various aspects of what is implied by the term "computer literacy," suggesting that competence with computers comes from using computers as machines, as a clerk doing data entry does; as tools, as a manager doing financial analysis does; and as creative instruments, as a writer or professional programer does. (Author/JN)

Advantages of having children use microcomputers at school and home include learning about sophisticated concepts early in life without a great deal of prodding, playing games that expand knowledge, and becoming literate in computer knowledge needed later in life. Includes comments from parents on their experiences with microcomputers and…

Discusses issues related to how students should use computers in schools. Indicates that using computers as tools leads to further experimentation and new discoveries and that skills learned in the computing process can be used to find innovative ways to solve new problems. (JN)

Addresses various issues in educational computing, suggesting that the real crisis facing schools is not a software shortage but a hardware crunch accompanied by misconceptions about how computers can help children learn. (Author/JN)

Discusses the role and use of microcomputers in scientific research, from monitoring instruments to controlling experimental processes. Included are descriptions of a computer-controlled protein sequencer and gene synthesizer, and microcomputer uses in medicine, physiology, biochemistry, and geology. (JN)

Discusses the trends toward developing "spelling checkers" for word processing programs. Compares 19 different commercial dictionary programs with regard to word size, dictionary source, number of words checked, memory requirement, algorithm type, and cost. Cautions against becoming too dependent on spelling checkers, noting their shortcomings.…