Some facts about the nature of computer studies are presented, and it is noted that males make up the majority of students. The nature of current assessment practices is detailed, and suggestions are made about future testing approaches. Mastery testing is promoted as the direction to take in the future. (MP)

Short descriptions are provided of several sessions of the Computer Education Group (CEG) Biennial Conference held at Nottingham University in April 1982. Sessions noted include the introduction, a presentation on teacher training, the development of examinations, and a question-and-answer session. (MP)

Discusses a four-point plan for setting up computer literacy programs for teachers and students. Plan focuses on involving existing education agencies; providing leadership; designing a teacher training program; and providing a feeling of belonging, security, and success for staff members. (JN)

Describes the computer literacy program at Vassar College. Included are discussions of the computer literacy program core course, literacy program follow-up courses, types of projects in which computers were used, role of the program coordinator, as well as comments on future endeavors (such as grant support for faculty/student computer…

Discusses the use of microcomputers at a middle school in Wayland, Mass., including activities in the computer room and formal computer instruction in grade six. Also discusses rationale for approaches taken, such as working with a variety of microcomputers and computer use in different subject areas. (JN)

Presents five teaching activities for early elementary children, including BASIC multiplication, creating picture using LOGO recursive procedure, and use of commas and semicolons with BASIC. Also discusses flowcharting techniques and cross-age tutoring. Includes "Computing without a Computer" by Evelyn Woldman, discussing use of a programmable toy…

Offers such teaching activities as a one-line program contest, field trips, examining job openings in newspapers, and a writing activity speculating what would happen if robots did not follow Isaac Asimov's "Three Laws of Robotics." Includes "Logo Goes to High School" by E. Paul Goldenberg, discussing problem-solving tasks…

Discusses the current microcomputer revolution, focusing on issues related to equal accessibility to the vast array of information technologies that are currently transforming our society. A comparison of schools which have and do not have microcomputers is included. (JN)

Describes "Josef," a robot programing language similar to the LOGO turtle language, which has been designed as an instructional system through which the algorithmic problem-solving skills required in computer programing can be developed and tested in a controlled learning environment. Four figures and a reference list are included. (JL)

Most computer terms are viewed as understandable if approached with common sense. Five sources for the terms are noted. The glossary is not viewed as comprehensive, and suggestions of more complete dictionaries are made. "Computerese" and "cybercrud" are two terms noted to describe the jargon associated with computer technology use. (MP)

Discusses development of a computer science education course for teachers leading to a Diploma in Professional Studies in Education (Computer Education). Includes course aims/content, selection of candidates, and experiences during the first year the course was taught. (JN)

Discusses the role and use of color in instructional computing. Suggests teachers consider: (1) how color symbolically represents content and reinforces organization of lessons; (2) how color enhances a lesson's style and short/long-term memory; and (3) cost of classroom color computer assisted lessons. (Author/JN)

"Big Business" is a series of computer simulations designed to give players a chance to compete in the practical world of business and finance. The basic elements of the simulations and versions designed for home use, middle school students, and high school students are described. (Author/JN)

"Lemonade" is one in a series of simulations designed to permit exploration of elementary concepts in economics. The nature of the simulation, problem-solving skills fostered, and suggestions for use of the program in the classroom are discussed. (Author/JN)

The author looks at what self-taught computer whiz kids--primarily middle-class boys--find so fascinating about their hobby and what they accomplish with computers. She draws implications for schools about the motivational effects of computers and the need for teaching computer literacy. (SJL)