Educational applications of computing are reviewed, beginning with a brief introduction to microcomputers and microcomputer characteristics that might be important for school use. An examination of significant models in computer education outside Australia emphasizes projects in the United Kingdom, France, and the United States, including the National Microelectronics Programs in England and Scotland, the British BBC Computer Literacy Project, the 10,000 Microcomputers in School Operation in France, and the Minnesota Educational Computing Consortium. Recent developments at both the state and national levels in Australia are then described. A look at the varied applications of computers in Australian classrooms is followed by case studies of a range of programs, including projects concerned with computer awareness teacher support material, computer studies at the upper secondary level, microcomputers in the primary school, computer-based learning in clinics and classrooms, a school computerized administration system, a statewide computer network, and educational applications of videotex. A concluding chapter outlines some emerging issues in computer education for Australian schools. A seven-page reference list is included. (LMM)