TOTHEEDITOR

Computer clubs and education

Editor:Ever since I stepped into the educa-

tion world, in the quasi-position oftechnical consulting instructor, I havebeen impressed by Dr. Braun's ideas,energy, and accessibility. Therefore, Iwas certainly pleased to see himrepresented in your series on computereducation.

I do, however, have one commentconcerning Dr. Braun's article, "Intothe 80's with Microcomputer-BasedLearning" (July 1980). As an early hob-byist, former president of the New YorkAmateur Computer Club, and initiatingexecutive director of the Personal Com-puting Society, Inc., I must mentionthat computer clubs are characteristical-ly populated by adults, not children.While it is true that teachers, parents,all of us learn much from our students,the clubs are just now beginning todraw these young people, with theirfresh ideas and viewpoint. Certainly, weneed them.And they need us. The entire premise

of computer clubs lies in the spirit thatbinds the members with enthusiasm,mutual interest, and therefore friend-ship. These are the most sharing, caringpeople I have ever known, anywhere.May I suggest that adult or

youngster, technician or novice, youjoin your local club for support? InNew York, we maintain a hot line todispense information and record callsfor assistance. The telephone number is(212) 864-4595. Of course, like so manyother clubs, we are also attempting toestablish a computerized bulletin board,but a high percentage of our membershave no equipment and are with us justto learn-so voice communication re-

mains essential. Call us. Join us. Nomatter what your age, sex, or technicalexperience.

Abby GellesNew York City

October 1980 Reader Service Number 3 0-

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