Encyclopedic: Computers are encyclopedic in that they allow us to access vast amounts of data almost instantly. Once we have access to the data we are able to transform the data into information that is useful for our purposes. What is also important is that computers allow us to access the data in many different formats. We are long past just thinking about data as text and numbers. We now have access to videos, online presentations, podcasts, etc. that enable us to get a better understanding of data from many different viewpoints.
Participatory: Computers allow us to collaborate with one another without being physically present. We can now gather the information noted above and get together to hypothesize about data and outcomes and create higher quality products as a result. The participatory nature allows us to take advantage of our collective intelligence. Computers are also participator in that we are able to directly interact with the machine and receive feedback through well-defined interfaces with set behavior.
Procedural: The procedural aspect of computers is what provides the behaviors associated with the interfaces. Programmers write procedures that enforce the rules of interaction with the computer.
Spatial: As computers become more powerful we are able to take advantage of their spatial nature. As Griz noted we are able to move up and down and interact with the computer spatially. What is becoming more evident is that the spatial nature is increasing and becoming more immersive. For example, the X Box now allows you to be the controller. It won't be long before we can interact with 3D computer interfaces just using our natural body motions.
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