Knowing what different kinds of computer equipment can do is the first step in choosing the computer that is right for you. This digest describes a developmental progression of computer capabilities. First the basic three software programs (word processing, spreadsheets, and database programs) are discussed using examples. Next, an explanation of…

Information literacy is the ability to access, evaluate, and use information from a variety of sources. This digest defines the information literate person and describes the evolution of the concept. Information literacy is examined in the context of existing practice; and the impact of technology on the storage and dissemination of data,…

Using technology as part of learning paradigms is rapidly integrating into many schools' curriculums. To successfully integrate technology into a school's curriculum, the following groups must become actively involved in the integration process: (1) local school boards; (2) administrators; and (3) teachers. Two schools in San Antonio, Texas are…

This paper discusses problems with information systems and services, particularly those relating to information on science and technology, in third world countries: (1) problems in collection development; (2) financial problems, including legal and political constraints; (3) a low degree of scientific literacy; (4) communication barriers; (5) lack…

Forty-four papers by 65 authors from the proceedings of a conference concerning issues in the emerging field of science, technology, and society education are included in this document. The papers are organized into three groupings: philosophical and research issues, underrepresented minorities in science and technology, and education from…

The borrowing of words by computer sciences from the field of English implies a widespread interest in the relationship between technology and language. To confirm the genealogy of "technological literacy," it would be useful to understand better linguistic literacy. To be literate is to be able to participate in the linguistic interchanges that…

The microcomputer is only the very visible tip of a technological iceberg which demands a national technological literacy. Other important new technologies include the laser or optical videodisc and satellite-ground information transfer and telecommunications. National technological literacy requires changes in curriculum development beginning…

Presents a rationale for developing a social psychology of computing, and provides some historical background on research concerned with the impact of technology on behavior. Describes the articles in this issue, which are said to suggest, as a whole, that computer technology amplifies existing social conditions. (KH)

A questionnaire completed by 928 postsecondary students asked subjects to rate one of two computer scientists on 16 personal attributes. Aside from gender of the ratee, questionnaires were identical. Results indicate that on eight attributes the female was rated significantly more positively than the male. Implications are discussed. (Author/CH)

Contains eight articles on keeping up with new technologies in agricultural education. Articles discuss keeping perspective, staying current, nontraditional careers, examples, machinery technology, the need to keep up, and teaching technology. (CH)

Describes a robotics literacy course offered for elementary age children at Broward Community College (Florida) and discusses the motivation for offering such a course, the course philosophy and objectives, and participant reactions. A sampling of robots and robotics devices and some of their teaching applications are included. (MBR)

This article cautions teacher educators about taking an uncritical view of technological literacy. Suggestions are given on ascertaining the appropriateness, relevance, and usefulness of various computer literacy courses. (CJB)

Discusses teaching approaches which incorporate science/technology/society issues in elementary and secondary school science curriculum, including short topics, discrete units, elective courses, full-fledged science/technology/society curricula, and interdisciplinary courses taught by several teachers in different fields. Ways to persuade teachers…

A two-day conference was held for faculty from nine schools offering successful undergraduate engineering and technology programs and for faculty from other institutions with less developed or no programs in this academic area. The design of successful programs, organization of technology courses, and problems in disseminating technology literacy…

Describes the objectives, content, organization, and evaluation of an eight-module course focusing on such areas as the historical development of technology, impact of new technologies on the fabric of society, issues faced by modern society, dynamics of technological change and "future shock," and ethical problems faced by engineers.…