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)

Discusses a study which focused on students' actual programming behavior. Descriptive data revealed that the high school students spent little time in planning their programs or writing their code. Their debugging behavior was characterized as a trial and error strategy. (ML)

Discusses the nature and current state of knowledge-based systems and expert systems. Describes an expert system from the viewpoints of a computer programmer and an applications expert. Addresses concerns related to materials selection and forecasts future developments in the teaching of materials engineering. (ML)

An Attitudes-Toward-Computer Usage Scale (ATCUS) was developed in two studies: (1) 40 items were administered to 365 undergraduate students to assess attitudes toward the use of computers; (2) based on factor analysis results, the scale was reduced to 20 items and administered to 351 undergraduates. Results show the ATCUS to be a reliable…

The efficacy of using graphic representations of concepts, which are more readily generated on a computer than in traditional texts, was studied. The study, which involved teaching computer programming, is described. The necessity of further research is discussed. (JL)

Discusses the computer engineering industry in the United States. Recounts recent shifts in the computer industry and notes that despite foreign competition, the industry offers graduating computer engineers ample opportunities for employment. Claims that skill and technical knowledge are the most important assets for getting a job. (TW)

Discusses some of the possibilities for careers in computer sales. Describes some of the attributes of quality computer salespersons, as illustrated by interviews with two experts on computer sales. (TW)

A questionnaire survey of 106 master's programs in public affairs/administration are to a significant degree conducting more computer training than are programs within political science departments. (Author/CT)

Computer science may foreshadow some near revolutions in school mathematics, concerning new ways of teaching much of the mathematics curriculum, increased emphasis on discrete mathematics, and the impact of symbolic mathematical systems. Each is discussed, with a distinction made between computer science and computer technology. (MNS)

This study investigated whether computer science educational background makes secondary students more adept at using word processing capabilities, and compared computer science and non-computer science students' writing improvement with word processing use. Computer science students used more sophisticated program features but student writing did…

Discusses the nature and development of computer software. Programing, programing languages, types of software (including dynamic spreadsheets), and software of the future are among the topics considered. (JN)

Highlights a study which indicates that although elementary schools play a key role in the way children use home computers, the machines may stir up conflict between schools and parents. In addition, it was found that microcomputers reinforce the existing family structure rather than altering it in any fundamental way. (JN)