Computer scientists have developed an interactive, graphical display system for pole-zero map analysis. They designed it for use as an educational tool in teaching introductory courses in automatic control systems. The facilities allow the user to specify a control system and an input function in the form of a pole-zero map and then examine the…

The processes by which statistical software is produced and made available to users were the main concerns of the conference. Six major topics were considered in relation to these software programs which perform the basic mathematical computations required in science and engineering: 1) the quality of mathematical software; 2) education and…

Designed for undergraduate social science students, this textbook concentrates on using the computer in a straightforward way to manipulate numbers and variables in order to solve problems. The text is problem oriented and assumes that the student has had little prior experience with either a computer or programing languages. An introduction to…

Students learned to plan and write complex computer programs by writing a program for playing NIM, a game in which two players alternatively remove one, two, or three sticks from an original pile of 21, with the player taking the last one being the winner. The primary teaching purpose was to develop the idea that a final goal--i.e., winning--could…

This project was directed towards exploring issues in undergraduate engineering education and presenting recommendations for future activities in engineering education at two universities. The report includes 14 recommendations pertaining to engineering education in areas such as: practical training, course structure and organization, teaching…

Describes a separate course section dedicated to the needs of social scientists which is embedded within an introductory course in computer science. The special needs of the students and steps taken to satisfy those needs are delineated. (Author/CMV)

Computer professionals are beginning to look toward codes of ethics and legislation to control the use of software. A project has been established at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute to develop teaching materials on computer ethics. (BB)

Key elements of a business data processing program at the high school level includes relevant curriculum, the active support and involvement of business, interested students, and qualified faculty. The article discusses these elements and the need for program acceptance and evaluation. (MF)

A situation in which shoppers are waiting in supermarket check-out lines is simulated to determine an optimum number of check-outs using data on the number of shoppers and the serving time. (MN)

A report on continuing education in engineering and mathematics at UCLA and the extent to which computer applications are dominating the scene. (BB)

This paper describes course design aimed at catching up with current business practice. Discussion concerns differences between old and new pedagogies, as well as obstacles in the way of adopting the new approach, particularly in the introductory course. (Author/IRT)

Describes an instructional model for training preservice teachers to teach with computers. The preservice level is seen as the appropriate time for such training because intense, long-duration experiences are required to develop functional competence with the instructional medium. (Author/IRT)

A book designed to enable lay readers to interact with computers using the BASIC language is described. (SD)

Describes studies conducted at a French university to evaluate microcomputer software used in computer assisted instruction. Results of questionnaires completed by a sample of 150 students in beginning computing courses are analyzed to determine how such courseware can be improved, and evaluation versus validation is discussed. (LRW)

Describes the comprehensive, college-wide approach to integrating computers in the curricula at Stevens Institute of Technology (New Jersey). Reviews how the personal computer ownership aspect of the program had an impact on the institution's organizational structure, faculty, and student body. (ML)