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…

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.…

This hearing on computer assisted instruction and the use of educational technology in classrooms was held in response to a presidential request that instructional innovation be given special attention, particularly in science and mathematics education, in every congressional district. This transcript of the hearing includes statements presented…

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…

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)

Regardless of favorable advertising and publicity, it is not presently clear that schools should rush to purchase microcomputers for instructional use in classrooms. In regard to instructional questions, much research is needed to determine the effectiveness of the computer under varying classroom conditions. Additional questions needing…

Discusses results of two 1983 educational microcoputer use studies which indicate schools are acquiring microcomputers but lightly utilizing them, and concludes that this may be due to lack of research on the intelligent use of microcomputers. Research questions needing answers are noted and scarcity and problems of research are discussed. (MBR)

Describes how three different levels of students interacted with three different commercially available robots. Considers the educational value of these devices and provides a list of seven robots (indicating their source, computer compatibility, language, current cost, capabilities, and options). (JN)

An invitational conference was convened to examine the use of microcomputers in public school education. Conference presentations summarized in this document offer overviews of instructional computing and discuss software development and evaluation, classroom and laboratory applications, and policy matters regarding software and hardware…

Answers teachers' hypothetical objections to computers in the classroom, especially their concerns about programing skills, time limitations, software, suitability, and proper usage. Compares future societal impact of computers to that of earlier technological advances like automobiles, telephones, and mass communication systems. (MLH)

Discusses the use of microcomputers at a middle school in Wayland, Mass., including activities in the computer room and formal computer instruction in grade six. Also discusses rationale for approaches taken, such as working with a variety of microcomputers and computer use in different subject areas. (JN)

The proliferation of personal computers in home/schools and use of computer chips in educational toys has led to a rethinking of ideas about education and fun, and ways the two can combine to provide youngsters with enjoyable and profitable learning experiences. Provides examples of commercially available computer-oriented educational toys/games.…