Computer Technology in Rural Schools: The Case of Mendocino County.

The county education office of Mendocino County, California, serving nine school districts and 11,800 elementary and secondary students, began planning for computers in 1979-1980, purchased two central computers, and by 1983 had one computer or terminal for every 40 students in the county. The county was characterized by its very enthusiastic administrators and by their willingness to experiment and make mistakes. It successfully focused its initial efforts on using computers to improve administration and special education. An evaluation visit to four of the districts revealed that most districts used computers for administrative purposes but that computer instruction was growing. Elementary schools offered some programming and many high schools offered computer literacy, word processing, and programming courses. One alternative high school offered an extensive program of creative computing including music and graphics generation. Despite tight economic conditions, the county managed to find funding for computers from state and federal sources, grants, and discretionary funds. The county spent about $1,000,000 for hardware and software from 1980-1983 and decided to budget $175,000/year to maintain the equipment. The effect of geographical isolation on the desire for information was seen as significant to the county's successful move to computer use. (SB)