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)

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.…

The overall goals of an advanced education course at William and Mary College using microcomputers to stimulate student creativity are to present the necessary background about creativity as it has been studied by psychologists and educators, to introduce students to instructional strategies which may develop creativity, and, finally, to increase…

A field study was designed to explore the processes involved with the assimilation of computers into the K-12 instructional program in the state of Washington. The study examined patterns of microcomputer adoption and implementation in both rural and urban school districts. Specific research objectives were to describe: (1) actual computer…

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)

Effective utilization of computer technology can help rural and small school administrators and teachers overcome problems of time, distance, sparsity in course offerings and support personnel, and unequal funding through facilitation of communication and through the potential to replicate quality instruction. Tools that have implications for…

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)

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)

Describes a study in the Hinsdale Elementary School District (Illinois) that was conducted to document current applications of computers in the schools. This report covers the collection of data from students and from teachers and other educators, the development of the questionnaire, selected results, and some implications. (EAO)