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)

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)

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…

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.…

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)

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)

Reported in this conference proceedings are educational activities related to mathematics education from several countries. The conference was devoted primarily to two major topics closely connected with the University of Chicago School Mathematics Project (UCSMP): (1) Development of an applications-oriented mathematics curriculum for all…

This manual based on Menlo Park's experiences in participating in a nationwide experimental computer literacy project provides guidelines for the development and management of a ComputerTown. This project, which was begun in September 1981 in the Menlo Park Public Library, concentrates on providing public access to microcomputers through hands-on…

This hardware review describes such innovative features of the Texas Instrument Portable Professional Computer as integrated color screen and option slots permitting customization as well as the physical unit (inside and out), its mass storage flexibility, and sturdiness. A comparison with the IBM PC Portable is included. (MBR)

Offers a framework for conceptualizing the events that follow adoption of innovation. Surveys of home users of microcomputers are described that examined three outcomes of adoption: (1) degree of usage; (2) satisfaction; and (3) attitude toward the technology. Variations in the outcomes are examined, and further research needs are suggested. (46…

Describes the adoption of innovation as a slow process that gradually accelerates, and applies this to the adoption of information technology innovations. Topics discussed include user information needs, awareness of innovations, and mastery of new technologies. (CLB)

Description of the portable Apple IIc includes its flat panel display; a new microprocessor, the 65CO2; its new design language; layout; documentation, including interactive tutorials; software support; and cost. Apple IIc's competitors and its new printer, the Scribe, are also discussed. (MBR)

The 2-year project's primary purpose was to create a consortium, consisting of a teacher training institution, the Massachusetts State Department of Education, local educational agencies, and the research community; the consortium would serve as a mechanism for promoting research, training, and dissemination in the area of innovative microcomputer…

Survey of recent developments in microcomputer technology, mass-storage technology, and telecommunications technology shows how these new technologies are driving the development of a new generation of information systems. Major changes in the information industry precipitated by arrival of new information systems and telecommunication…

The adoption process for personal computers by faculties in business administration and teacher education at the graduate college and university level was studied. Diffusion Theory (Roberts, 1962) was tested as it related to the adoption of an innovation and the adoption process as the individual passed through the stages of the process…