This pilot study tested the hypothesis that the logical thinking skills of middle-grades students are enhanced by teaching them computer programming using the BASIC programming language. A quasi-experimental design was used with 36 students randomly selected and assigned to one of two treatment groups: 18 students received no instruction in…

Reviews experiences in teaching computer programing to engineering freshmen at the University of Oklahoma. Focuses on the stimulating interactive environment that is possible when using the UNIX operating system to introduce students to programing. (JN)

LOGO tools are procedures which accomplish specific tasks. They can be furnished to students, along with suggestions for exploratory activities, or students can develop them. Several of these tools (program listings) with sample output are presented. (JN)

Discusses a study which focused on students' actual programming behavior. Descriptive data revealed that the high school students spent little time in planning their programs or writing their code. Their debugging behavior was characterized as a trial and error strategy. (ML)

This paper describes Macintosh features which can be used in writing interactive programs. A program written in Microsoft BASIC (version 2.0 interpreter) is described which is used to produce plots of electric field produced by two-dimensional arrangements of point charges. It demonstrates the use of pull-down menus, windows on the screen, the…

Describes an approach to teaching interactive computing for physics students beginning with the use of BASIC and video terminals during the first year of study (includes writing solution programs for practical problems). Second year students learn FORTRAN and apply it to interpolation, numerical integration, and differential equations. (JM)

Activities for middle/junior high school students are presented, including use of string variables, science lesson ideas, computer scavenger hunt, and guidelines for interviewing people who own/use computers. Includes "I'll Write...Just Lead Me to My Computer" by Robert Engberg, discussing word processing instruction. (JN)

Following a brief description of the microcomputing program at Drexel University, which requires all freshman to have access to a personal computer and offers Macintosh microcomputers and software at a low cost to entering freshman, this paper summarizes the written sources of information on the program. Four examples of how currently available…

Describes a course (Introduction to Numerical Techniques of Physics) which can be adapted to such courses as applied mathematics, numerical analysis, mechanical or electrical engineering, chemistry, and biomathematics. Course goals (including emphasis on the distinction between computing, programming and coding) and instructional strategies are…

Designed for use by school districts introducing computer mathematics into the curriculum, this manual provides guidelines for selecting a microcomputer system, as well as objectives and an outline for an introductory course in computer programming. Also presented are topics for computer applications in science, mathematics, chemistry, and…

Discusses how instruction in computer literacy will fit into the present school curriculum (particularly science) and the nature of an adequate scope and sequence for this subject area. A model K-12 computer literacy curriculum is presented with a corresponding scope and sequence chart. (JN)

Recent research and current trends in the field of computers and education are reflected in this collection of reviewed papers, tutorials, panels, project presentations and other sessions. More than 80 papers are grouped in the following topic areas: administrative applications, composition and literature, computing for the learning disabled or…

Assesses the range and extent of computer assisted instruction software available in electronic engineering technology education. Examines the need for software skills in four areas: (1) high-level languages; (2) assembly language; (3) computer-aided engineering; and (4) computer-aided instruction. Outlines strategies for the future in three…

Because of the rapid introduction of computers into the Israeli education system, teachers resent the new technology or are unrealistically enthusiastic. Therefore, a split curriculum which enables teachers to follow a more logical path of adoption was developed. A brief description of the syllabus used (including course goals) is described. (JN)

Using personal-sized microcomputers (8K), students learn to operate equipment and program in BASIC. They complete computer-assisted instruction lessons and select, design, operate, demonstrate, and document their own original programs in this one quarter, high school course. Course objectives, activities, materials, and evaluation are outlined.…