The Probable State of Computer Technology by 1980, with Some Implications for Education.

Frederick W. Blackwell

Expert InsightsPublished 1971

Reviews significant computing developments that will probably be in common use by 1980. Large computers--meaning fast and powerful, but not physically large--and minicomputers that may be the size of today's portable radios will both contribute to the feasibility of individualized computer-assisted instruction, the former through multiprogramming and switchable microprograms. While children should probably learn to type, excessive reliance on keyboard input will be reduced by graphics terminals. Spoken input will probably not be widespread by 1980, but access to computers via simple English written commands should be routine. Programs should be as accessible as books are now. Computing networks should be common, linking small local computers to larger distant machines. Improved communication links, probably including two-way cable TV, can bring equal computer opportunity to teachers, students, and administrators of all schools--if economic and institutional barriers can be overcome. 10 pp. Ref.

Topics

Document Details

  • Copyright: RAND Corporation
  • Availability: Web Only
  • Year: 1971
  • Pages: 10
  • Document Number: P-4693

Citation

Chicago Manual of Style

Blackwell, Frederick W., The Probable State of Computer Technology by 1980, with Some Implications for Education. Santa Monica, CA: RAND Corporation, 1971. https://www.rand.org/pubs/papers/P4693.html.
BibTeX RIS

This publication is part of the RAND paper series. The paper series was a product of RAND from 1948 to 2003 that captured speeches, memorials, and derivative research, usually prepared on authors' own time and meant to be the scholarly or scientific contribution of individual authors to their professional fields. Papers were less formal than reports and did not require rigorous peer review.

This document and trademark(s) contained herein are protected by law. This representation of RAND intellectual property is provided for noncommercial use only. Unauthorized posting of this publication online is prohibited; linking directly to this product page is encouraged. Permission is required from RAND to reproduce, or reuse in another form, any of its research documents for commercial purposes. For information on reprint and reuse permissions, please visit www.rand.org/pubs/permissions.

RAND is a nonprofit institution that helps improve policy and decisionmaking through research and analysis. RAND's publications do not necessarily reflect the opinions of its research clients and sponsors.