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From: jk3@psuvm.bitnet.UUCP
Newsgroups: comp.lang.misc,comp.edu
Subject: Re: How to teach computers
Message-ID: <9891JK3@PSUVM>
Date: Wed, 28-Jan-87 09:46:04 EST
Article-I.D.: PSUVM.9891JK3
Posted: Wed Jan 28 09:46:04 1987
Date-Received: Fri, 30-Jan-87 03:54:48 EST
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Xref: watmath comp.lang.misc:211 comp.edu:71

I sort of agree with aspects of both sides of the arguments, but let me
mention a course that I have developed this year which has gained
considerable popularity (<20 students in Fall, >70 students this Spring).

The course is designed to teach students something about computers, but
without going through the typical programming route.  After covering
traditional computer concepts (what is a CPU, I/O devices, etc.) we
concentrate heavily on becoming competent computer users by learning
applications software.

We cover WP,Spreadsheets, Database, Graphics, and Communications.  Also, I
throw in a little on programming concepts, at the end.  The course is primarily
taught on PC's (IBM, or compatibles) using ENABLE (tm).  To allow them exposure
to similar integrated packages on other machines, we are also using JAZZ (tm)
on the MAC and a package on the mainframe.

The students seem quite receptive to this type of 'Intro to Computers'.  We
are trying to persuade most students generally interested in computers toward
taking this course before any programming courses (unless, of course,
programming courses are required for their major).

Well, that's my $.02 worth  (don't typewriters have a CENTS key?!?!?!)