The Academy
A companion programme to TVOntario's Bits and Bytes, The Academy explores the principles and applications of computer technology in greater detail.
Episodes12
Getting Started
This episode looks more closely at the key hardware elements of a computer, and introduces many of the popular home computers of 1983. It also includes a panel discussion involving a primary and a secondary school teachers, an at-home/small business user, an office automation consultant and a lawyer on what computers mean to them, and how they've have been changing their lives; and a segment where viewers' questions are answered.
Ready Made Programs
In this episode, we touch on the issues of computer architecture and software compatibility, and how software is loaded into and saved from the computer. It also includes a panel discussion involving an instructional computing specialist, a (particularly interesting) editor-teacher-consultant, a lawyer, and an educator-consultant, and covering ready-made software, what makes a program good, how one might settle on a microcomputer, the balance between passive use of the computer as an appliance versus active/creative use through programming, the balance of 'serious' and entertaining uses of the computer (and the intersection of entertainment and education), and the role of local user groups.
How Programs Work
Jim Butterfield demonstrates computer programs, how operators interact with them, and the methods computer programs use to commuicate. In addition, a conversation with a computer programmer about their techniques, and a panel discussion on why the need to write computer programs.
File and Data Management
Jim Butterfield demonstrates how file systems work on computers, and how to store data on internal devices and external devices such as floppy disks. A panel demonstrates how they store data related to their jobs and hobbies. Plus, we hear from viewers with questions on computers and technology.
Communication Between Computers
Jim Butterfield demonstrates sharing resources between computers to complete complex tasks and spread information across areas. A panel demonstrates how their own computers and communication tools. Plus, viewer correspondence.
Computer Languages
Jim Butterfield discusses the instructions that make a computer tick - computer languages. He demonstrates many of the popular languages in use today, then discusses with educators the languages they use both at home and in the school. Plus, viewer correspondence on various computing topics.
Computer-Assisted Instruction
A focus on using computers to aid in education. School teacher Joe Vanya discusses his use of computer assisted instruction in Canadian schoolrooms, creating games and tools to help students learn. A panel of teachers discusses their use of CAI, plus viewer correspondents with Jim Butterfield.
Simulations and Games
Computers are not just for education and business, they can be for fun! Jim Butterfield discusses the different kinds of games on the market. School teacher Larry Noonan goes in depth on educational video game Rocky's Boots, while game designers demonstrate their latest creations. Plus, viewers write in on their computing questions.
Computer Graphics
Jim Butterfield looks at a number of micro-computers and how they implement computer graphics. The LOGO programming system is demonstrated to showcase users creating their own computer graphics. A round table discussion on computer graphics plus viewer correspondence round out the programme.
Computer Music
Jim Butterfield demonstrates music creation and voice synthization on microcomputers, including tools that assist in learning how to read and speak. A panel demonstrates musical interfaces on their own computers, including microphones and musical keyboards. Plus, viewer correspondence and questions.
Computers at Work
With micro-computers making computers more affordable, Jim Butterfield discusses various uses of this technology in the office. Spreadsheets, charting, and information sharing is demonstrated. Business owners and educators discuss the uses of computing in their businesses. Plus, viewer correspondence.
What Next?
What is the future of computers? What side effects will there be, on privacy, information security, or socialization? A panel of experts have an indepth discussion. Plus, Jim Butterfield gives his predictions on the future of computing.