Operating Systems IV is a subject taught to fourth-year information technology learners at Technikon Natal, a tertiary educational institution in KwaZulu Natal (South Africa). During 1998, the need to introduce elements of flexibility in this course was identified. As a result, a virtual classroom was used as a communal resource base and a…

Provided are reviews of a wide spectrum of science and computer science books. Each entry includes review, publication date, and current cost. In addition, entries are coded as to level, subject, type of book, and whether the book is teacher- or student-oriented. (JN)

Focuses on the Punahou School in Honolulu, Hawaii, which has redesigned its curriculum to integrate LOGO across the entire K-4 curriculum as a tool for the teaching of other subjects. How practical problems are being overcome is discussed, and some instructional applications are described. (EAO)

Current emphasis on technology and neglect of the areas of human understanding and development may produce children who are unable to sustain human relationships and interaction and will turn to machines for gratification. Society faces the challenge of altering these trends by developing human resources in order to have technology serve human…

Electronics companies, faced with growing competition from Japan and fearing a shortage of well-trained Ph.D.'s, are pouring unprecedented amounts of cash into university electrical engineering, computer science, and other science departments. Specific examples are cited. (Author/JN)

Approximately one-third of Microelectronics Education Programme (MEP) funding is directed toward in-service teacher education. Three levels of competence (familiarization, understanding, applications) are fostered in each of four domains: electronics/control technology; computer as instrument; computer as learning; and electronic communications.…

The administrative computing operation of Miami-Dade Community College (Florida) is described. The financial aspects, equipment, and services offered by the institution's computer system are detailed. (BH)

The operations of the Stanford Center for Information Processing (SCIP) at Stanford University are described: SCIP manages most of the centralized computing facilities at the university. (BH)

Describes the start and potential benefits of a two-year year project to upgrade computer services at The California State University and Colleges, including improving instructional capabilities and sharing computer applications with 40 institutions across the country having similar installations. (JN)

In the future, computers will be needed to sift through the vast proliferation of available information. Among new developments in computer technology are the videodisc microcomputers and holography. Predictions for future developments include laser libraries for the visually handicapped and Computer Assisted Dialogue. (JN)

Institutions spend millions of dollars on computer training rooms yet give little thought to lighting, temperature, ambient noise, furniture arrangement, and other physical factors that affect learning. This article examines some problems and suggests remedies: changing furniture, controlling monitors, and redesigning rooms. Lists selected…

Examines the process that students in grade 6, aged 11 and 12, go through in distance learning using electronic mail. Highlights include a constructivist approach; acquiring basic computer skills through experiential learning; teacher's role; data collection; content analysis; and results that showed the importance of personal contact between…

Describes a study of Norwegian college students that investigated whether gender, group composition, or self-efficacy in computing has any impact on cooperation, giving or getting task-related help, and level of activity in student groups. Results confirms gender differences in self-efficacy in computing. (Author/LRW)

Summarizes the main themes and presents recommendations of the international conference, "Children in an Information Age: Tomorrow's Problems Today," that was held in Bulgaria in 1985. Topics discussed include computer training for children; the need for well designed research; the teacher-computer relationship; artificial intelligence;…

Described is the use of automated control using microcomputers. Covers the development of the microcontroller and describes advantages and characteristics of several brands of chips. Provides several recent applications of microcontrollers in laboratory automation. (MVL)