Describes the pull-out gifted program at the Chinese High School in Singapore, which provides talented students with a differentiated and enriched curriculum in mathematics, science, and computer science. Other program aspects include a mentoring program and a creative computing camp. The program is seen as combining the advantages of both full-…

A study of 148 male and 161 female 7-12 graders tested the hypothesis that computer attitudes and computer confidence positively affect each other and that both positively affect commitment to computer learning. Contrary to expectations, computer confidence had a negative effect on commitment to learning. Includes an attitudes and self-confidence…

Presents a case study of a computer scientist learning and using the Cognitive Walkthrough (CW) technique to assess a multimedia authoring tool. Compares predictions by the analysis to the usability problems found in empirical usability tests. Presents several hypotheses about the cause of low effectiveness, which suggest that additional…

Argues that the organization of cognitive structures for technical domains can be visualized as a network of connected thinkable models. Describes a taxonomy of models that has been developed and discusses the issue of how representations relate to human modes of perception and action. Contains 25 references. (DDR)

Explains a proposed block of instruction that would give students in industrial engineering, operations research, systems engineering, and applied mathematics the basic understanding required to begin more advanced courses in simulation theory or applications. (DDR)

Considers how computing and composition combine for a new form of interdisciplinary learning and intramural cooperation. Offers a description of the analogous processes of problem solving and programming in an introductory computer science course and the writing process typically used in introductory English composition courses. (Author/LRW)

Discusses the need for adequate precollege computer science education and focuses on the issues of teacher preparation programs and requirements needed to teach high school computer science. Presents models of teacher preparation programs and compares state requirements with Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) recommendations. (Author/LRW)

Investigated the potential of incorporating learning strategy instruction into hypermedia learning materials in a high school computer class. Discusses results of a six-week intervention where the experimental group participated in learning strategy training in conjunction with hypermedia computer networking lessons and reports results of pre- and…

A survey of 305 undergraduates tested a causal model for choice of computer science as a major. The model found causal differences for males and females. Attitudes toward mathematics played a more complex and stronger role for men, and experience played a stronger, more positive role for women. (Author/MSE)

Discussion of computer programing and students' cognitive styles focuses on a study that explored the relationship between the cognitive styles and achievements of high school students in an introductory computer programing course. Reflective and impulsive cognitive styles are described, and implications for the design of instructional materials…

Discussion of problems in computer assisted instruction focuses on poorly written software and the role of computer programing. Use of computers without programing knowledge is discussed, and pragmatics is emphasized as the discipline needed to supplement syntax and semantics in the field of computer science. (seven references) (LRW)

Relates the history of computer studies and its impact on the secondary education environment in Australia. Discusses how the mass media and computer distributors have made parents feel that access to computer education is essential in their children's education. (GG)

A study of the contribution of institutional characteristics to the National Academy of Sciences' reputational ratings of faculty found that program characteristics do influence ratings, but an "institutional halo" effect also exists, indicating that faculty reputations and program quality are more complex phenomena than implied by…

Using a computerized logic course employing the Carnegie Mellon Proof Tutor problem-solving environment, crucial features of computer environments were isolated and relative pedagogical effectiveness was assessed. Students used computerized environments to construct proofs and were presented with identical course materials on sentential logic. The…

This case study reports on the design and implementation of an experimental summer program aimed at introducing undergraduates to research in computer science. A research component added to a regular course on human-computer interaction based on the summer program is described, and recommendations for providing undergraduate research experience…