The nature of programing languages is discussed, focusing on machine/assembly language and high-level languages. The latter includes systems (such as "Basic") in which an entire set of low-level instructions (in assembly/machine language) are combined. Also discusses the nature of other languages such as "Lisp" and list-processing languages. (JN)

The most common approach to computer education is the computer literacy model which suggests that students need some basic familiarity with computers to compete in the job market or to become informed citizens. Discusses why this model for computer education should be rejected by professional educators. (JN)

Offers and discusses three suggestions to capitalize on two developments related to system dynamics modeling and simulation. These developments are a junior/senior high textbook called "Introduction to Computer Simulation" and Micro-DYNAMO, a computer simulation language for microcomputers. (Author/JN)

This second of two parts (part one presented in the November-December issue) continues a discussion of a BASIC program on computer arrays. Individual lines for organizing and retrieving data from the computer's memory are discussed. (JN)

Discusses a four-point plan for setting up computer literacy programs for teachers and students. Plan focuses on involving existing education agencies; providing leadership; designing a teacher training program; and providing a feeling of belonging, security, and success for staff members. (JN)

"Big Business" is a series of computer simulations designed to give players a chance to compete in the practical world of business and finance. The basic elements of the simulations and versions designed for home use, middle school students, and high school students are described. (Author/JN)

"Lemonade" is one in a series of simulations designed to permit exploration of elementary concepts in economics. The nature of the simulation, problem-solving skills fostered, and suggestions for use of the program in the classroom are discussed. (Author/JN)

Views of Arthur Luehrmann, an individual who has become known as one of the most vociferous advocates of computer literacy in educational computing, are presented. Spending four out of five days in a computer literacy course on computing and one out of five on awareness issues is advocated. (MP)

Discusses steps involved in model building and simulation: understanding a problem, building a model, and simulation. Includes a mathematical model (focusing on a problem dealing with influenza) written in the DYNAMO computer language, developed specifically for writing simulation models. (Author/JN)

Making Cryptograms is designed to give middle grade students practice in using the FIND and REPLACE features on their word processors. An activity sheet (which may be duplicated for class use) is provided. Instructional strategies are also provided. (JN)

Experiences of the Instructional Services staff of the Minnesota Educational Computing Consortium (MECC) are detailed. To meet the massive demand for computer training, the staff has balanced the three approaches of offering regularly scheduled events, responding to individual requests, and urging institutions to set up their own follow-up…

This material emphasizes student development of a computer program to keep track of data about people in a neighborhood. The first part involves taking a survey of people and the second part is on entering the information into a program. The use of file structures in BASIC is outlined. (MP)

Describes some commands, simple programing procedures, and applications of the programing language LOGO, including its powerful recursive feature and its value in teaching problem solving. A listing of LOGO graphics packages includes details of software and print materials, prices, and microcomputers that will support the packages. (EAO)