Describes two studies of undergraduates that examined learner and gender preferences for structured flowcharts versus pseudocode in the comprehension of short, complex algorithms. Research dealing with algorithm comprehension and flowcharts is reviewed, hypotheses tested are explained, implications for instructors and instructional materials are…

Presents an overview of intelligent computer-assisted language instruction (ICALI) research as a type of artificial intelligence research. Outlines the components and kinds of ICALI systems. Examines practical research considerations such as personnel needs for development of ICALI software. (Author/LS)

Traces the history of the Text Encoding Initiative (TEI) from the 1987 Vassar Conference to the publication, "Guidelines for the Electronic Text Encoding and Interchange." Explains the types of questions raised and attempts made to answer them. Discusses the organization of TEI committees and the project's future. (CFR)

The use of cellular automata to analyze several pre-Socratic hypotheses about the evolution of the physical world is discussed. These hypotheses combine characteristics of both rigorous and metaphoric language. Since the computer demands explicit instructions for each step in the evolution of the automaton, such models can reveal conceptual…

The ability of the theory of reasoned action to predict computer-related attitudes and behavior was demonstrated through two studies: a questionnaire on computer behaviors and attitudes; and word processing training involving various levels of persuasive communication based on belief statements identified in the first study. (22 references) (MES)

Discussion of graduate programs in educational computing highlights six models of educational computing programs: (1) the computer science model, which stresses programing; (2) the educational psychology model; (3) the programed instruction model; (4) the instructional design model; (5) the information center model; and (6) the audiovisual…

Discusses the application of artificial intelligence to online information retrieval systems and describes several systems: (1) CANSEARCH, from MEDLINE; (2) Intelligent Interface for Information Retrieval (I3R); (3) Gausch's Query Reformulation; (4) Environmental Pollution Expert (EP-X); (5) PLEXUS (gardening); and (6) SCISOR (corporate…

Describes the Information Technology (IT) in Mathematics Project in Great Britain, which surveyed the extent to which IT was used in the teaching of mathematics and examined the extent to which IT skills could or should be taught within mathematics. Experiences with spreadsheets and LOGO are described. (seven references) (LRW)

The demands placed on the networks transporting the information and knowledge generated by the increased diversity and sophistication of computational machinery are described. What is needed to support this increased flow, the structures already in place, and what must be built are topics of discussion. (KR)

The changes in the relationship between the computer and user from that of an isolated productivity tool to than of an active collaborator in the acquisition, use, and creation of information, as well as a facilitator of human interaction are discussed. The four paradigms of computing are compared. (KR)

Discusses the positive transfer of computer-related skills to new computer tasks and reviews transfer-related literature to provide recommendations to facilitate better transfer of students' skills from introductory computer classes to future needs. Topics addressed include course goals, user interfaces, problem solving, and software. (Contains 60…

The effects of home environment on achievement in and attitudes toward computer literacy was studied via administration of a 37-item computer-literacy questionnaire to 193 public school students in grades 5 through 10. Home environment was a better predictor of attitudes toward computer learning than it was for student achievement. (SLD)

Focuses on the gender gap in computer science and discusses results from a new report, "Gender Gaps," by the American Association of University Women. Examines technology's impact on gender equity and the importance of teacher education. Notes the increased enrollment of girls in math and science and calls for new programs to increase…

Provides an introduction to capability issues in the United Kingdom and expands on the University of North London's capability curriculum. Explains the new software engineering module for computer science that incorporates the capability curriculum and discusses the need for a partnership between educators, employers, and the government to advance…

Demand for qualified and skilled computer science/computer support specialists will more than double between 1996 and 2006. Carnegie Technology Education (CTE), a non-profit business, has formed partnerships with ten community colleges, four-year colleges, companies and for profit institutions to provide Web-based faculty development and…