Directions for educational computing and implications for professional skilling requirements

The rise of the personal computer has resulted in significant changes in the way education is using computing. It has also expanded dramatically the range of users of educational computing. This paper discusses the trend away from the old CAI-style computing based on centralised mainframe architecture, specialist staff, and drill or tutorial programming. New directions discussed include decentralised systems based on PCs rather than mainframes, spread of computing expertise throughout staff, and proliferation of higher-order uses for computers such as simulation, problem solving, and training in real-life applications based on business and commercial software packages. Implications for training needs for education professionals are pointed out, including the need for professionals to assume significant responsibility for their own continuing personal development of current computing skills.