NATAL is a high-level programming language designed to meet the requirements of the course author in the preparation of Computer Assisted Learning (CAL) materials. The basis for its design is found in the functional specification published by the National Research Council's Associate Committee on Instructional Technology; developers of the…

Suggests approach to teaching definitions and concepts of computer programs to learners at all age levels by using words (string manipulations) rather than numbers. An outline of a possible sequence for introducing the BASIC programming language is given. Two references are cited. (EJS)

Four conference papers are reviewed in this introduction to a symposium. The first paper is by Clements and Merriman, who make a case for the reflection of Steinberg's information processing componential model of cognitive processes in the LOGO language and computational environment; present a series of experiments that attempted to tailor the…

Discusses the rationale, aims, and objectives of introductory computer courses and suggests an improved approach to designing such courses to prepare pupils for a computer-based society and to improve problem solving through structured programing. Criteria for evaluating and choosing an appropriate programing language are listed. (EAO)

Presents three tenets for a computer course that blends a skills course centered on programing language and its uses and an awareness course focusing on computer literacy. The tenets suggest focusing on well-established aspects of computing, emphasizing concepts, and centering on computer applications. (MBR)

Discusses author's adaptation of the computer language Logo as an aid in teaching college preservice education students programming, geometry, arithmetic, and problem solving. A description of how Logo works and an example of how "turtle geometry" can be used to help teach geometry concepts are included. Four references are listed. (EJS)

A programing language called ELASTIC (Expandible Language for Aiding Student Instruction in Computing) has been developed which incorporates many of the basic features and concepts of a typical assembly language. ELASTIC was designed for use in a computer-assisted instruction (CAI) undergraduate course in computer programing and was written in a…

This report evaluates two arguments for the use of computers as an important tool in learning: (1) there is a need to develop the kinds of skills and knowledge that will allow youth to find good jobs in a changing, information-based national and international setting; and (2) computers are capable of improving the overall level of student…

Discusses strategies for teaching elementary computer programing and describes a study that used two instructional strategies in a computer-based training program designed to teach turtle graphics programing techniques to novice undergraduate students. Learning activities that emphasized either the completion of existing programs or the generation…