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)

The proliferation of computer software for young children necessitates that early childhood teachers have the knowledge and skills needed to evaluate and select developmentally appropriate software. This article describes the manner in which one university prepares early childhood teacher candidates to analyze software for the young children in…

Emphasizes that for the success of information technology (IT) implementation, teachers must have the information on how to use the technology before, during and after purchase. Discusses software evaluation; knowledge of expertise preconditions; onsite and remotely accessed IT support structures; and deployment, integration, and utilization. (AEF)

Presents four articles on the use of computer technology with young children: "Computers for Infants and Young Children" (David Elkind); "Using Technology to Enhance Early Learning Experiences" (Kirsten Haugen); "Creative Use of Technology with School-Agers" (Ina Lynn McClain); and "Evaluating and Selecting Software for Children" (Charles…

This paper suggests that many children from low-income and minority communities are not taught the skills and knowledge necessary to fully participate in the economic, social, and political life of the United States and that schools need to start early, to recognize the unique nature of how young children learn, and to design software that will…

A computer-literacy staff training program was designed to provide adult basic education (ABE) instructors and staff with basic computer skills. A curriculum using both Apple IIe computers and IBM personal computers was developed and software obtained. Eight instructors and nine administrative staff members of local literacy programs completed 10…

Provides a case study of a computer-assisted language learning (CALL) program for beginning learners of Spanish at the University of Bradford, England. The pros and cons of various software used in the program, as well student attitudes toward CALL, are discussed. (six references) (MDM)

Introduces "SimCity 2000," a computer simulation, as a tool for teaching urban geography. Argues that, combined with other activities, it can enhance computer literacy, geographical knowledge, and critical skills. Notes gender differences in students' previous exposure to the software; argues that instructors must consider this when…

Naturalistic observation and questioning of children grades 1-6 in school library media centers investigated their intentions, purposes, search terms, strategies, successes, and breakdowns in accessing fiction through Online Public Access Catalogs (OPACs). Presents a framework of perspectives (individual, social cultural, task, time and timing) to…

This annotated bibliography is the sixth annual compilation of the abstracts of 228 documents added to the ERIC database during the year 1991 in the area of computer applications in elementary and secondary schools. The types of materials included are administrator guides, bibliographies, conference papers, evaluative reports, literature reviews,…

This collection provides an overview of literature entered into the ERIC database in 1990 on computer applications in elementary and secondary education, adult education, and special education. The first of four sections contains a list of overview documents on computer assisted instruction. Focusing on special applications, the second section…