Describes some ways computers can help students develop thinking skills in the social studies. Emphasizes the use of data bases, simulations, and tutorials to teach thinking skills. Questions whether computers can do a better job of teaching students to think and reason than alternative methods. (RKM)

Reviews the characteristics of existing social studies software. States that instructional software must address one or more of the established goals of social studies and follow valid principles of learning. Offers a model for the development of software based on Robert Gagne's learning theory. (RKM)

Asks three questions: (1) Are machines capable of thinking as people do? (2) How is the thinking of computers similar and different from human thinking? and (3) What exactly is thinking? Examines research in artificial intelligence. Describes the theory and research of consciousness education and discusses an emerging paradigm for human thinking…