Applies a cultural perspective to the problem of introducing novices to computing. Presents a model of initial socialization composed of reality shock, confusion, and attempts at control. Describes a survey of college students' first encounters with computers and suggests that the social contexts of introductory courses encourage feelings of…

Explains types of computers, components of the computer, and basic computing terminology. Reviews 12 types of software packages. Suggests uses for the computer in a camp setting. (CS)

Contrasts artificial intelligence and conventional programming languages. Reviews Personal Consultant Plus, Smalltalk/V, and Nexpert Object, which are PC-based products inspired by problem-solving paradigms. Provides information on background and operation of each. (RT)

Summarizes what has been learned, thoughts regarding mistakes that have been made, and recommendations for addressing future questions, regarding the role of computers in the educational process. Reviews the research on computer based instruction. States that findings are inconclusive and often contradicting. Recommends that different evaluation…

Examines the cognitive effects of learning to program versus programming as it is experienced in introductory classes. Research studies that have analyzed the cognitive demands of programming are reviewed and criticized, problems of transfer of programming skills are discussed, and 42 references are provided. (LRW)

Minnesota has adopted legislation that provides some guidance in thinking about how a district or state ought to plan for the use of computers and other advanced technology in schools. Characteristics of the Minnesota plan, teacher training, and implementation problems are among the areas discussed. (JN)

APL was invented specifically as a mathematical teaching tool, and is an excellent vehicle for teaching mathematical concepts using computers. This article illustrates the use of APL in teaching many different topics in mathematics, including logic, set theory, functions, statistics, linear algebra, and matrices. (MNS)

Describes a nine classroom hour experiential research elective in computer technology for social wokers which provides an opportunity for the student to develop beginning abilities to organize and manage data into a format for computer application. Class assignments focus on a social welfare agency's daily operations. (Author)

Highlights the advantages of word processors and spelling checkers in improving student writing skills. Explains how spelling checkers work and describes the types of available checkers. Also provides lists of Apple, IBM, and Commodore word processors and checkers. (ML)

In the 1970s, the Federal Republic of Germany embarked on a national program of using computers in education. Examines the impact of implementing the program, focusing on: results of curriculum development efforts; programing and teacher training; and computing related to vocational education. (JN)

This study concerned conceptual difficulties of college students learning programming and ways the teacher can simplify the process. An analysis of general strategies used in solving problems involving loops is given, with four types of hierarchical strategy categorized. Students had difficulty transforming their algebraic descriptions into…

Annotates reference material on artificial intelligence, mostly at an introductory level, with applications to education and learning. Topics include: (1) programing languages; (2) expert systems; (3) language instruction; (4) tutoring systems; and (5) problem solving and reasoning. (JM)

Presents highlights of a December 1985 report on Soviet scientific capabilities. One finding is that a new emphasis on computing advances and instrumentation may weaken basic research in this country. (JN)

Expands on results of a previous published 1982 study which examined the status of computer science teacher certification in the 50 United States. Also reports on some of the trends, issues, and recommendations related to computer science certification. Includes actions taken in Arizona, Illinois, Texas, Wisconsin, and Ohio. (JN)

Introduces a flexible, versatile notetaking system, BASIC Microcomputer Notes, which helps college students preorganize notes to systematically record most unique types of information (program statement numbers, verbatim computer commands, subroutines, flowcharts, and diagrams) presented in a beginning microcomputer programing course. (MBR)