The meteoric rise of the computer age is a challenge for public educators, many of whom are still unfamiliar with basic computer technology. Yet many educators are finding that they can correct their misconceptions about computers by becoming "computer aware." Computer awareness comes from gaining a knowledge of computer history; a basic…

Responds to comments in March/April issue of this journal on use of microcomputers in elementary/junior high schools, focusing on use in elementary schools. Addresses issues of funding for microcomputer purchases, availability of software, and teacher/student training. Suggests that programing is not an essential requirement before purchasing…

The basic principles of computing are explained and a discussion of how a computer performs its "logical" functions is presented. A dictionary of some computer terms is provided. (MLW)

Contrasts artificial intelligence and conventional programming languages. Reviews Personal Consultant Plus, Smalltalk/V, and Nexpert Object, which are PC-based products inspired by problem-solving paradigms. Provides information on background and operation of each. (RT)

This report focuses on the status and future of computer technology in Massachusetts schools. The report is organized into four major sections. Introductory information is provided in section 1, followed by a framework (section 2) for viewing computer technology. This framework provides information on computer hardware components, computer…

Convinced that computer technology could be used to extend (rather than challenge) traditional academic disciplines, a liberal arts college devoted substantial resources to instituting a campus-wide computer literacy program. Major emphasis was given to encouraging participation of non-science faculty and adapting computers to the curriculum. (JN)

Urges instructors interested in applying computer technology in developmental education and learning assistance centers to survey campus and community computer resources, learn computer terminology, read computer literature, join computer organizations, and consult experts. Offers suggestions for choosing a computer system and programs, writing…

This brief description of the Department of Defense Dependents Schools' (DoDDS) computer education program is intended to provide direction for and to stimulate development of computer applications in elementary and secondary schools administered by DoDDS. This 3-dimensional program consists of (1) computer instruction, including both computer…

Presented are seven abstracts of papers presented at a microcomputer conference. Areas considered include: development of "Rocky's Boots," a logic simulation game; using computers for practice and problem solving; experiences using LOGO; a computer science curriculum; microcomputers in the science laboratory; computer literacy; and a…

Intended for developers of vocational education professionals and for educators making decisions about the usefulness of personal computers in education, this report deals with the effects of the personal computing revolution on professional development of vocational educators. The two major papers and published opinion pieces that make up this…

Describes a computer-training needs assessment conducted in a manufacturing company which was performed by students in an industrial education course at the University of Minnesota. Provides suggestions for educators in providing computer training to the private sector. (TW)

Trends in computing and office automation and their applications, including planning, institutional research, and general administrative support in higher education, are discussed. Changing aspects of information processing and an increasingly larger user community are considered. The computing literacy cycle may involve programming, analysis, use…

Colleges and schools of education have three broad roles concerning computers in education: (1) investigation, consisting of research to determine school needs, evaluate programs, and verify educational theories; (2) instruction, or teacher preparation; and (3) involvement, consisting of educating their faculties, serving as resources, and…

This paper describes a multimedia workshop at Worcester State College (Massachusetts) organized by computer science students to give their older classmates the opportunity to gain "hands on" experience with multimedia computers. A questionnaire on the effectiveness of multimedia systems was completed by 35 older students, whose average…

Discusses artificial intelligence, its definitions, and potential applications. Provides listings of Logo and BASIC versions for programs along with REM statements needed to make modifications for use with Apple computers. (RT)