Recent taxonomies show that today's researchers have a broader conception of
the role that computers can play in education. Taylor (1980), for example, has
described three uses of the computer in schools. First, as a tutor, the computer
presents material, evaluates student responses, determines what to present next,
and keeps records of student progress. Most computer uses described in earlier
taxonomies involved the tutoring function of computers. Second, the computer
serves as a tool when students use it fbr statistical analysis, calculation, or" word
processing, such as when students use it as a calculator in mathematics classes,
as a map-maker in geography, as a performer in music, or as a text editor and
copyist in English. Third, the computer serves as a tutee when students give it
directions in a programming language that it understands, such as Basic or
Logo.