Computer schooling
Magnetized bib for tools
Computers can be used to individually coach school children who have dropped behind their classmates: one of the points from a report about the computer in secondary education published last November by the British Computer Society. The report stresses the importance of distinguishing between applications which instruct and those which encourage pupils to learn.
A working 'vest', equipped with a magnetized bib to carry tools is available from M.A.C.C. Manufacture D'Armes et Cycles De Chatellerault, Boite Postale 96 36, avenue du Premdent Wilson 86101 Chatellerault France. Made out of strong fabric, the vest comprises a removable magnetized "bib", consisting of five bars attached to a plate. The magnets exert a holding force of 5 kg. The shoulder straps and belt are adjustable to suit all sizes of wearer. Weighing 1"3 kg in all, including the movable supporting pieces, the vest is 40 cm in height, 25 cm wide at the smallest width and 42 cm wide at the belt.
In Computer Assisted Instruction (CAI) the computer is used as a sophisticated teaching machine with almost unlimited flexibility in its interaction with the pupil. CAI may be of especial value when used for remedial teaching by, for example, coaching a child backward in reading, or, by individually instructing pupils w h o may have dropped behind their classmates in a number of subjects because of illness.
The tools can be laid against and picked off the bib very easily. There
The report also covers the need to inform school children about the uses of computers as part of their basic education. Most children are probably aware of computers by the age of eight, simply by watching television. Most convincingly, the American moon landing programme showed children the importance of computing. It is essential that children understand the role of the computer in society and this should begin with education. Regrettably, approximately 80% of secondary school children are likely to grow up ignorant of the impact of computers on their lives because of the shortage of facilities.
122
AppliedErgonomics June
1975
On all aspects of human behaviour the survey emphasises that there is a large amount of variation within each sex and a considerable overlap between the sexes. For instance, although on average, girls are better at arithmetic than boys, about 40% of the boys score higher than 50% of the girls. It is commonly assumed that because men on average are, for example. more aggressive than wo men, all men are more aggressive than all women. The paper shows that this is far from true. Many of the observed differences between men and women (in personality, interests, attitudes and even abilities), do not represent natural differences between the sexes, but reflect how each person learns the 'sex roles' that society attributes to each sex. Culturally defined 'sex roles' have a great impact on working life. They reduce a person's occupational opportunities-and deprive industry and commerce, and the economy as a whole, of a large reservoir of potential talent. People may not apply for jobs they consider not 'appropriate' for their sex. Management may judge certain jobs more "appropriate' for one sex or the other. And there may be more far-reaching effects hindering potential areas of development in us
Computer Managed Learning (CML) tests pupil's individual comprehension and skill and, after analysing the results, directs them via the teacher to the next task. This may be revision or progress to another area - but is governed by student's individual achievements and requirements. Applications of CAL (Computer Assisted Learning) encourage, among other aspects, pupil involvement in problem solving. While teachers should always first consider non-computer materials for the study planned (in view of the cost), computers can be used effectively for simulation exercises. It may be feasible to construct simplified models of the economy, urban planning, historical events, population and genetics. PupiL, would be able to change parameters and discover the effects of the changes. Similarly, using simulation models pupils can investigate aspects of subjects which might be dangerous such as certain chemical reactions, or, would ordinarily take too long to study.
and why they should not be able to do it well. This is one of the conclusions of a survey of research findings published by the Department of Employment, entitled Women and Work: Sex Dif/erences and Society by Dr J S King, Department of Employment Manpower Paper No 10. (HMSO Price 3 t p.)
all. MACC magnetized bib for tools are pockets for a ruler, pencil and other small tools. A large cross-wise pocket is available for a level gauge and foI other long accessories and toots. Fixed pockets are also provided above the belt. Other movable pockets with a flap below the belt are available for nails and tacks. There is a belt provided with holes enabling these pockets to be worn, together with two supports, which can also be removed if needed. one of which is equipped with a harness for various types of drills and the other with three harnesses for tools ready for use.
Women and work There are no reasons why women should not be suitable for almost any job at present performed by a man.
Also published is Women and Work: A st(ttistieal survey. Department of E m p l o y m e n t M a n p o w e r Paper No 9. (HMSO Price £1.50.) This paper brings together statistics from many sources to give the main facts about women and work. It shows that most women at work now are married. In 1971. four married women in ten worked, compared with one in ten in 193 t. Of those not at work many have families with young children. Whether or not the mother works is shown ~o relate to the age and number Of children in the household. Part-time working has increased rapidly. 2-aAmillion female enlployees worked part-time in Great Britain in 1971. about a {bird of all females in employment. Two in five female employees in the service industries worked part-time but in manufacturing generally only one in five. Men's and women's experience of work differs radically. Few industries