The author looks at what self-taught computer whiz kids--primarily middle-class boys--find so fascinating about their hobby and what they accomplish with computers. She draws implications for schools about the motivational effects of computers and the need for teaching computer literacy. (SJL)

Tod Hodgdon, a former math teacher, has no background in computer science yet manages to teach a popular programing course to first-time computer users. This article describes his teaching style and presents his views on computers in the schools. (Author/SJL)