Discussion of computer usage and familiarity focuses on an empirical study of college students that investigated the relationship between computer familiarity and cognitive ability. Results are reported that indicate a positive correlation between high scores on cognitive ability tests and computer usage, but no gender differences are reported.…

Critiques current examples of computerized grammar and style checkers. Examines the relative strengths and weaknesses of each program. Concludes that programs are not an adequate substitute for knowing the applicable rule of English. (RW)

Because unskilled teachers are unlikely to promote effective educational use of computers, the Catasauqua (Pennsylvania) Area School District compensates its teachers for computer training and provides them with computers for home use. The nonsalary cost of this successful program, modeled after Kirkland, Washington's experience, is less than…

Discusses the capabilities and limitations of 10 computer programs that analyze writing style. Describes the mechanisms by which these programs read a text, analyze the writing style, and offer suggestions for improving writing style. (KEH)

The majority of Ladue (Missouri) School District teachers use technology to enhance their curriculum and to serve as personal productivity tools. As a result, teachers are better trained and offer expanded curriculum and innovative ideas. (SI)

The article describes ways to encourage effective classroom computer use. Setup of the computer corner is crucial. A friendly corner should include things like explanatory posters, disk boxes, a digital clock, earphones, a timer, chairs, and a wheeled cart. A sign-up sheet encourages efficient scheduling, which is also critical. (SM)

Discusses three different types of databases: utility database programs, add-on databases, and stand-alone databases. Describes how databases motivate students' reading and writing. (MM)

Shares a variety of illuminating metaphors for expressing the special nature and spirit of Hypercard (computer software used to build structures that create patterns and connections). Emphasizes Hypercard's multiple personalities and reminds readers that there are many useful and enriching ways to describe Hypercard. (MG)

Many school business officials have turned to computer equipment leasing. A lease arrangement permits administrators to stretch annual budgets, to appropriate funds, and to easily upgrade or change equipment. Another alternative to high-cost computer purchase is to buy or lease used equipment. (MLF)

Describes computer programs that effectively teach keyboarding skills to elementary school students. (MM)

Describes the efforts of a North Carolina high school principal to adapt another school's computer network system to a reading comprehension improvement project in his school. Recounts administrative networking applications at Muskogee (Oklahoma) Public Schools and offers tips for choosing and evaluating computer networks. (MLH)

Discusses the pros and cons of using a computerized gradebook program for keeping records of student performance. Describes what tasks such programs can do for teachers, and their shortcomings. Explains differences between database and spreadsheet programs, and notes the extent to which 11 gradebook programs accomplish record-keeping tasks. (SR)

The article describes a project in which blind and partially sighted children used a computer-guided floor turtle to develop spatial concepts such as right and left and accurate facing movements. (Author/DB)

Interviews with 22 high-school special education teachers, 24 mildly handicapped adolescents, and 8 administrators found that almost half of the teachers were not using microcomputers. Teachers with at least one computer in their classroom were more likely to use computers and have positive attitudes toward computers. Predominant uses included…

British university expenditure patterns for computing in the last 20 years are explored and current spending and facilities are surveyed. The recent Computers in Teaching initiative is described and present trends in computing with implications for universities are outlined. Some assessment of the overall finance of university computing is…