This document presents skill standards for technology occupations. An overview describes national context, changes in the updated "Millennium Edition" of the skill standards, trends in information technology, and curriculum informed by skill standards. Skill standards are presented for eight career clusters in information technology (i.e.,…

This study examined the digital divide in San Diego County (California), conducting background research, reviewing published studies, and surveying county residents on computer ownership, computer use, and demographics. Results indicated that computer skills were fast becoming essential. Nationally, it was projected that 60 percent of jobs…

This report describes an evaluation of Computer Literacy, which is an undergraduate general studies course, offered by College of Education at a large southwestern university. The purpose of this course is to provide knowledge about computer and computing, and application skills in using Microsoft Office software. The course is coordinated by a…

Suggests that microcomputers may be a significant component in solving educational problems. Areas discussed include the nature of the problems, educational software development, computer assisted instruction (CAI), and effects of computers/CAI in primary and secondary schools. Comments from several government officials are also provided. (JN)

Physicians wishing to become computer literate face two immediate problems. First, there is no readily available nor universally accepted statement of what such literacy should entail, and second, such pedagogic mechanisms as exist are not widely available. This paper addresses both problems. (SSH)

Summarizes the current state of the art on informational data bases and projects an image of the effective student-scholar of tomorrow. Focuses primarily upon The Source but references a number of other existing data bases which are available to the personal computer enthusiast via existing telecommunications systems. (JAC)

Describes a study of the changes in developmental students' affective attitudes toward microcomputers following an intensive week of computer training. Pre- and posttest results showed that computer training had a positive impact on students' attitudes and that computer-assisted instruction decreased students' anxiety and confusion and increased…

Examples are provided which illustrate that both adults and children can become fluent in computing, discussing a juggling program (Logo) which demonstrates the power of the techniques of structured programing to solve problems. Issues related to teaching computer literacy are also discussed. (JN)

Describes several different metaphors to help educators develop constructive approaches to understanding computer applications for teaching and learning. These include the computer as person, tool, brain, map, glass box, vitamin, palette, mentor, and catalyst. Computer-as-palette, for example, considers computer use in facilitating human…

The gap between male and female participation in elective mathematics is now being replicated in computer classes. School districts implementing computer education programs should take action to ensure sex equity. (MLF)

After comparing the effect of the automobile on society and education in the early 1900's, the author states that present day arguments for drastic educational change because of the power of the computer are premature. (MLF)

Examines many imprecise definitions being given to the term "computer literacy," proposing a universal standard of interpretation which required minimal understanding and ability in programing. The proposed definition focuses on computer structure/operation as well as computer applications and limitations. Differing viewpoints for including…

School board computer policies should include letting parents borrow and be trained on the district's computers, having sufficient software available before buying hardware, announcing the kind of computer to be used, and listing for parents the software each course uses and what commercial software is compatible with the district's. (RW)

Describes the development of the Computer Tutor project in Palo Alto, California, a computer literacy pilot program in which tutors are used to teach high school students and other interested persons computer programing. (JJD)

Responds to comments in March/April issue of this journal on use of microcomputers in elementary/junior high schools, focusing on use in elementary schools. Addresses issues of funding for microcomputer purchases, availability of software, and teacher/student training. Suggests that programing is not an essential requirement before purchasing…