Published November 1984 — Download PDF of the original newspaper column
Byrd's-Eye View By U.S. Senator Robert C. Byrd Computer Science: New ABC's of Education The scientific knowhow that has helped to create such sophisticated pieces of equipment as the space shuttle is only one example of America's new age of technology. New developments in computer technology are among the most important factors in encouraging scientific breakthroughs, so I am pleased that the state of West Virginia has embarked on an ambitious program to establish a statewide school computer education program. With equal access to computer technology emerging as one of the most important educational challenges of the 1980's, West Virginia's program is especially commendable. However, like many states, West Virginia does not have the financial resources to send its computer program into all grades at all of the state's schools. To help students in states like West Virginia, I joined Sen. Frank Lautenberg of New Jersey in sponsoring legislation during the last session of Congress that would increase computer education opportunities. This is an extremely important program, and it is one I intend to continue fighting for when Congress begins a new session next year. The legislation I support targets federal assistance to schools and students who need it most, and it emphasizes planning by schools to ensure that the best computer education program is pursued. It is a tribute to West Virginia's school planners that our state's computer education plan was used in the bill as a model system. Teacher training and the development of computer programs specifically for elementary and secondary school students are additional features of the bill. Along with reading, writing, and arithmetic, computer science has become one of the basics of a quality education. Government has a legitimate role in ensuring equal access to computer education, I am hopeful that this role will be translated into legislation during the coming session of Congress. November 21, 1984