Degree Name

Education Specialist (EdS)

Semester of Degree Completion

1984

Thesis Director

Floyd A. Landsaw

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop a computer literacy infusion plan for Community Unit School District Number One in Charleston, Illinois. The plan was developed to extend and build upon the existing computer usage study prepared in 1982. Specifically, this plan was prepared to provide direction and recommendations in the form of curriculum development, planning for staff development, and improved software and hardware selection processes for the elementary schools in Charleston.

A review of the research and literature revealed that the computer and its use has developed at a remarkable rate since the late 1970's. Successful projects throughout the country were studied closely in order to identify ideas which could be useful to the Charleston schools.

An infusion plan was designed and implemented in the author's second grade classroom with the idea that if the plan was successful, it could serve as a model for grades K-6 in the Charleston school district. Objectives, lesson plans, activities and evaluation instruments were developed and utilized during the 1983-84 school year. The plan was designed to answer the following questions:

  1. Can young students learn to use correct terminology to describe the different components of computer systems?
  2. Can young children learn to handle, load, and interact with appropriate software?
  3. Can young children learn to discuss verbally three ways in which computers are used in society?
  4. Can young children learn simple programming and write their own programs on the computer?

Based on the positive results of the plan, implementation of a computer literacy curriculum was determined to be feasible. A suggested outline and scope and sequence for computer literacy in grades K-6 was presented.

A list of recommendations for Community Unit School District Number One was then presented. These recommendations concerned the following areas:

  • formation of a microcomputer committee
  • staff development
  • selection of hardware
  • selection of software
  • computer-assisted instruction

Finally, it was concluded that in order for any school district to enter the computer age successfully, careful planning and preparation are necessary.

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