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)

Discusses the nature and current state of knowledge-based systems and expert systems. Describes an expert system from the viewpoints of a computer programmer and an applications expert. Addresses concerns related to materials selection and forecasts future developments in the teaching of materials engineering. (ML)

This study investigated whether computer science educational background makes secondary students more adept at using word processing capabilities, and compared computer science and non-computer science students' writing improvement with word processing use. Computer science students used more sophisticated program features but student writing did…

Highlights a study which indicates that although elementary schools play a key role in the way children use home computers, the machines may stir up conflict between schools and parents. In addition, it was found that microcomputers reinforce the existing family structure rather than altering it in any fundamental way. (JN)

Describes a study of computer science majors conducted at Purdue University to determine what factors predict academic success or lack of it. Results show that strength in mathematical and verbal skills is necessary for success as indicated by SAT scores, minimum number of high school mathematics credits, and class standing. (MBR)

Discusses whether and how computer programing courses can teach problem solving. Provides results of an integrated set of studies of middle school programing students whose problem solving skills increased in a programing class. Argues that "exemplary" instruction is more efficient than "typical" instruction. Examines the influence of students'…

Argues that the computer's capacity to provide rapid translation between symbol systems in a socially meaningful context can be exploited to enrich learners' metacognitive skills and social awareness, as well as problem solving and creative expression. Describes software that capitalizes on this potential and proposes the development of new…

Suggests having students design a football field (looking at it from above) as the final project of a unit on computer graphics. Includes listings for 13 short Applesoft programs (involving LO- and HI-RES graphics) which students can use in making the field. Advanced students can use the animation techniques. (JN)

A survey of certification offices was conducted to determine what state departments are doing about computer coursework and certification and/or endorsement requirements for teachers and administrators. Results obtained from all 50 states and four United States territories are provided. (JN)

Highlights research on computer assisted instruction which should lead educators to the conclusion that there should be a computer in every classroom to improve teacher effectiveness and to enhance student achievement. (NEC)

Describes various ways a user can control computer program activity using different menu constructions. Advantages, disadvantages and program design principles for menu design are discussed. A listing for a menu demonstration program is included. (BC)

Analyzes employment trends in computer-related fields, focusing on the education and employment of Black computer workers. Reports that parity is increasing in computer occupations where gaps between Black and White employment exist, those jobs requiring the most education. (KH)

A permanent commitment to allocating two percent of a district's budget for the instructional use of computers would eventually provide one microcomputer per 10 students and adequate software, inservice education, coordinators, and contingency funds. Analysis based on the average district's resources may be applied to each system's needs. (MJL)

Discusses nature of training objectives, sources of training materials, and who will direct the training. Also discusses a model training program at Penn Mutual Life Insurance, a customized approach to individual learning, and computer security. (JN)

Computers present a problem for mathematics teachers that may be solved through teacher education programs. Classroom teachers should be competent in programing languages, exploring software, and understanding the emphasis of computers in the mathematics curriculum. (DF)