Focuses on the advantages of using the microcomputer rather than the minicomputer. Descriptions of the programing process and system components for the microcomputer are followed by a list of 11 types of computer programs that can be processed at this time, and a brief discussion of research goals. (RAO)

Issues arising from a symposium on microcomputer applications for young handicapped children concerned identification of realistic applications, instructional management, and need for research on effects of technology use. Recommendations in the area of curriculum, software, management, and personnel preparation were made and future directions…

The article describes three approaches to using microcomputers with children ages 8-16 who have special learning needs: (1) developing basic concepts and skills (e.g., spelling); (2) developing general concepts and skills (e.g., reporting); (3) developing global concepts (e.g., producing a newspaper). Examples of computer software for each area…

A survey of computer education in engineering colleges was conducted in 1981 and the results reported in EJ 287 351. A follow-up survey conducted in 1984 asked many of the same questions to identify trends. Results of this survey with comparisons to the 1981 survey are presented and discussed. (JN)

Parents of 62 children enrolled in a private school for young gifted students completed a questionnaire designed to assess home use of computers, as well as parental concerns and expectations for appropriate concurrent and future computer use in educational settings. Familiarity with computers increased perceptions of their beneficial educational…

Presents a classification system of four microcomputer simulation types developed to evaluate their instructional processes: structured questions and graphics, variable-assignment exercises, diagnostic simulations, and group-interactive simulations. How this taxonomy contributes to three tasks associated with classroom use of software is…

Reviews two basic ways in which microcomputers are being used in school library media centers--administrative or management purposes (circulation control, budget planning, acquisitions processes, staff and student scheduling); and instructive purposes (library skills, drill and practice, problem solving, computer literacy). Three major types of…

Provides abstracts of selected papers presented at EdCompCon '84. Topics addressed include: what features educators want in educational software; effects of teaching method on student performance by sex in a computer literacy course; implementation and evaluation of a university microcomputer laboratory; and implementation and evaluation of PLATO…

Discusses issues related to how students should use computers in schools. Indicates that using computers as tools leads to further experimentation and new discoveries and that skills learned in the computing process can be used to find innovative ways to solve new problems. (JN)

Because technology is changing so fast, it is hard to plan for the use of computers. The author offers advice for schools planning to choose and implement computer technology. Considered are: classroom and administrative uses, peripheral equipment selection, and budgeting. (JMK)

Intended to enable educators to make intelligent decisions when purchasing hardware and software, this article presents basic information on computer hardware, effective software, and necessary peripherals needed to achieve educational objectives instructors have set. (MBR)

Ten guidelines for the reading teacher to aid in finding programs that will become an indispensable part of reading activities in the classroom. (CRH)

Public libraries have vital role to play in introducing computer technology through provision of equipment, programs, and elementary instruction to users of all ages. Creative and resourceful approaches to budgeting and establishing policies and procedures will be required. Canadian public libraries (Oakville, Etobicoke, Aurora, Toronto) provide…

School districts of all sizes can begin to use computers in their schools by outlining objectives, securing community support, planning for one microcomputer for every 20 students, and evaluating computers and software. (MLF)

Herbert Simon (Nobel prize-winning economist/professor) expresses his views on human and artificial intelligence, problem solving, inventing concepts, and the future. Includes comments on expert systems, state of the art in artificial intelligence, robotics, and "Bacon," a computer program that finds scientific laws hidden in raw data.…