Year: 1983
Type: article
Abstract: This article discusses the anticipated role of computing literacy in higher education during the emerging personal computer era. It distinguishes computing literacy, defined as the ability to use computers and software for practical tasks, from computer literacy, which includes programming and technical understanding of computer operations. The article argues that universities must respond to rapid developments in microcomputer technology and that faculty and administrators risk becoming less technologically capable than their students if they do not acquire basic computing skills. It surveys potential applications of computers in university teaching, research, writing, administration, advising, publishing, libraries, testing, data analysis, and professional communication. The article also anticipates greater use of online databases, disk-based journals, computer-assisted textbooks, interactive learning materials, and artificial intelligence. While acknowledging institutional resistance and cost concerns, it presents computing as central to the future of academic work and frames the microcomputer as a tool that expands individual access to information and professional productivity.
Author: Vernon W. Gantt
Language: English
Subfield: Education
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W1556411144