Discusses issues related to how students should use computers in schools. Indicates that using computers as tools leads to further experimentation and new discoveries and that skills learned in the computing process can be used to find innovative ways to solve new problems. (JN)

Public libraries have vital role to play in introducing computer technology through provision of equipment, programs, and elementary instruction to users of all ages. Creative and resourceful approaches to budgeting and establishing policies and procedures will be required. Canadian public libraries (Oakville, Etobicoke, Aurora, Toronto) provide…

This paper describes how the TI-92+ calculator can be valuable in illustrating basic and advanced programming concepts in introductory computer science courses. Descriptions of the scope of the curricula for the courses in which the TI-92+ is used are provided. The TI-92+ programming language is particularly useful in demonstrating the progression…

Discusses the rationale, aims, and objectives of introductory computer courses and suggests an improved approach to designing such courses to prepare pupils for a computer-based society and to improve problem solving through structured programing. Criteria for evaluating and choosing an appropriate programing language are listed. (EAO)

Describes growth of computer science program in Chetek Junior High School (Wisconsin), from having a single DecWriter II terminal to 14 microprocessors, electronic training devices, and a sequence of computer science courses. Students learn about basic computer literacy, hardware, software, programing, and computer technology. (EAO)

It is argued that the objectives identified by the Minnesota Educational Computing Consortium should not be viewed as a list of what should be taught, but as a picture of what was actually practiced in 1978 and 1979. Future courses are viewed as having heavy emphasis on computer-student interaction. (MP)

The approach taken by representatives of the Minnesota Educational Computing Consortium (MECC) to define computer literacy objectives is defended. The MECC approach is termed a comprehensive view of literacy that incorporates programing, awareness, and other aspects. It is felt that hands-on computer experience alone does not guarantee literacy.…

Articulation of computer courses between junior and senior colleges and universities would strengthen programs and resources use at both levels and allow students, by not repeating similar courses, to complete educational requirements sooner. Course content could be standardized and advanced courses designed to build on the earlier. (MF)

Traces the evolution of introductory computing courses for undergraduates based on the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) guidelines published in "Curriculum 78." Changes in the curricula are described, including the role of discrete mathematics and theory; and the need for a broader model for designing introductory courses is…

Technicians and scientists seem to have lost their ability to communicate across specializations and with the general public. A study was conducted at McDonnell Douglas Corporation, in Missouri, to assess differences in communicative ability among accountants and computer programmers. The present study sought to determine the effects of a liberal…

This examination of computer equity argues that current educational trends--which emphasize teaching applications of computers rather than programming--will limit the computer skills of students. Added to this difficulty is the argument that some students (often minority and female students) need not be pushed to learn programming if they don't…

Computers serve schools in several ways. In the business office they perform functions in payroll and accounting; they are the subject matter in the computer science courses that train students in skills that the coming technological lifestyle will make necessary; they permit effective instructional management; and they provide the means for…

Presents three tenets for a computer course that blends a skills course centered on programing language and its uses and an awareness course focusing on computer literacy. The tenets suggest focusing on well-established aspects of computing, emphasizing concepts, and centering on computer applications. (MBR)

Discusses what industry is looking for in college-level, computer-oriented programs, curricula, instruction, and graduates. Comments from various industry and college personnel are provided. A listing of the 15 top-ranked graduate and undergraduate computer science programs (including criteria used in the rankings) is also provided. (JN)

Describes insights and attitudes toward computer-based learning which developed during design of "Computer Power," an introductory programming curriculum for junior high, high school, and junior college students. Learning and thinking, computer power meta-goals, and computer power subject matter goals are highlighted. (EJS)