Reviews the efforts of eight teachers involved in a study using microcomputers in schools. Reflects on how the pursuit and politics of institutional reward and innovation can undermine good practice. Advocates the use of critical thinking when participating in ethically justified innovation. (KO)

As a form of warning to educators who might mistake novelty for value, a nationally recognized expert compares the present influx of microcomputers into academia, with similar and now historic moves by motion pictures, educational radio and television, language laboratories, and teaching machines. (JN)

Describes activities and recommendations of Montana's task force on computer education. Recommendations include integrating computers with regular classroom instruction, providing hands-on experiences for students, and using computers for problem-solving. An audiovisual presentation, handbook, and staff development program have been developed to…

Discusses the characteristics, limitations, uses, and programing features of the Radio Shack Model 100, one of the first truly portable personal computers, and describes how it differs from a "transportable" computer in weight, size, and features. (MBR)

Examines the recent rapid introduction of microcomputers into schools and discusses the range of uses to which they may be put. Related specific and general issues are explored, and speculations concerning possible long-term developments are offered. (Author/RH)

Summarizes findings of a survey school use of microcomputers. Results indicate that most schools have microcomputers, secondary schools are more likely than elementary schools to have them, and drill/practice and programing are major uses. Additional findings reported focus on time spent by student users, regular teacher users, and other areas.…

Describes Cyclops, an advanced electronic audiovisual system which uses microprocessor technology to convert a video signal into an audio signal for transmission by telephone, radio, or stereo-audio cassettes. Students need a 'black-box' to decode the signal for display on a standard television screen. Problems encountered in implementing this…

The educational potential of time-lapse video sequences and weather data obtained using a conventional microcomputer are considered in the light of recent advances in both fields. Illustrates how videos and microcomputers can be used to study clouds in meteorology classes. (RM)

Because it was financially impossible to put a microcomputer center at each of nine Chapter I-funded elementary schools in the Modesto (California) City Schools, a remodeled school bus was converted into a mobile computing center. Objectives of the "Compubus" program and evaluation of the first year are discussed. (JN)

Describes the computer field before the advent of CP/M (Control Program for Microcomputers), an operating system which facilitated compatibility between different computers. CP/M's functions and flaws and the advent of Apple DOS and UCSD Pascal, two additional widely used operating systems, and the significance of their development are also…

Freshmen at Clarkson College of Technology (Potsdam, NY) will be issued a Zenith microcomputer. Every aspect of Clarkson's curriculum will be redesigned to capitalize on the new computing and word processing power. Students will pay $200/semester and a one-time $200 maintenance fee and will keep the computer when they graduate. (Author/JN)

Reports on the development of a test designed to measure the perceived characteristics of microcomputers as information innovations, with factors measuring complexity, compatibility, and trialability/observability, but not measuring relative advantage or perceived expense. Finds acceptable levels of reliability and construct validity for the test.…

Many low-income schools are currently receiving money to purchase microcomputers and computer-oriented materials. They include Weaver High School (Hartford, CN) and schools in Edgefield County (SC). The uses of the computers in these schools, impact on curriculum and instructional practices, and future endeavors are discussed. (JN)

Description of the Macintosh personal, educational, and business computer produced by Apple covers cost; physical characteristics including display devices, circuit boards, and built-in features; company-produced software; third-party produced software; memory and storage capacity; word-processing features; and graphics capabilities. (MBR)

Discusses hardware and software requirements for interactive video. Also illustrates how interactive video can be used to individualize instruction by describing a program which introduces students to the principles and operation of the offset press. A list of companies distributing interactive video hardware/software is included. (JN)