This paper discusses computers and their potential role in education. The term "byte" is first explained, to emphasize the idea that the use of computers should be implemented one "byte" or step at a time. The reasons for this approach are then outlined. Potential applications in computer usage in educational administration are suggested, computer based instruction is described, and advantages and limitations of computer assisted instruction (CAI) systems are discussed. The remainder of the paper addresses the following questions: (1) How realistic are projections of computers with an artificial intelligence? (2) What are the best current uses of CAI systems? (3) What are other possible uses of the computer in institutional settings? (4) What are the benefits and possible curriculum implications for teaching students a computer language or programming? (5) What should be taught in a programming course and how should it be taught? and (6) What can computers do for people which they cannot now do for themselves? (LMM)