This paper identifies three ways that computers are used in educational contexts. The first and most widespread use is as a tutor, i.e., as a delivery system for programmed instruction and drill-and-practice activities. The second use is as a programming environment to teach programming languages such as BASIC, LOGO, or PASCAL. The third use is as a flexible, reconfigurable tool, employing software that can turn the computer into a word processor, calculator, music system, data organizer, graphing system, note taker, or bulletin board. The first two models (computer as tutor and as programming environment) are discussed briefly, and the third mode (computer as tool) is discussed in more detail. Various types of software and applications in this mode are described. It is argued that, although this is the most neglected of the three approaches, it is the type of use which holds the most promise for computer use in the classroom. (MES)