Informal Digital Learning of English (IDLE) refers to individual's learning endeavor occurring in out-of-class environments in a naturalistic way independent from the requirements of a formal education program including assessment. Learners' IDLE experiences in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) contexts are quite important to understand their…

This book provides an archival forum for researchers, academics, practitioners and industry professionals interested and/or engaged in reforming teaching and learning methods by transforming today's learning environments into smart learning environments. It will facilitate opportunities for discussions and constructive dialogue between various…

This fact sheet offers basic instructions on connecting to the ERIC database for individuals who own or have access to a microcomputer and are familiar with ERIC and how to search it through a database terminal. Software, hardware, and telephone line components necesary to make a microcomputer act as a database terminal are outlined. The…

Presents an annotated list of 17 references dealing with various topics related to telecommunications and online systems. (JN)

The article describes the IBM/Special Needs Exchange which consists of: (1) electronic mail, conferencing, and a library of text and program files on the CompuServe Information Service; and (2) a dial-in database of special education software for IBM and compatible computers. (DB)

Discussion of the use of microcomputer-based bulletin boards in schools lists possible uses, explains modems and software requirements, and considers such management issues as security measures. Several school operated bulletin boards are identified that can be contacted easily, and the OPEN CAMPUS system at San Leandro High School is described.…

School computer networks range in size from a single-classroom link to a statewide arrangement. Experiences, advantages, and problems encountered in implementing a local area network are discussed. (MLF)

These materials for a five-unit course were developed to introduce secondary and postsecondary students to the telecommunications process and its impact on society. Units cover the following topics: orientation to telecommunications; telecommunications hardware; telecommunications software; methods of transmission; and applications. The first…

This guide reviews the basic principles of Internet exploration for the novice user, describing various functions and utilizing "onscreen" displays. The introduction explains what the Internet is, and provides historical information. The introduction is followed by a listing of Internet hardware and software (freeware and shareware),…

One of today's most promising and least costly interactive distance learning systems is audiographics--the combined use of voice transmission, computer networking, and telefax transfer of materials. This handbook is a guide for educators interested in developing an audiographics program. Section I looks at reasons why both rural and urban…

Small school district administrators can use microcomputers to improve their management abilities and productivity through computerized accounting, electronic mail and online subscription services, and the use of integrated software programs. (MD)

A discussion of tools available for use of the Internet, particularly by college and university educators and students, offers information on use of various services, including electronic mailing list servers, data communications protocols for networking, inter-host connections, file transfer protocol, gopher software, bibliographic searching,…

Survey of the history and current development of information technology covers hardware (economies of scale, communications technology, magnetic and optical forms of storage), and the evolution of systems software ("tool" software, applications software, and nonprocedural languages). The effect of new computer technologies on human…

Describes five categories of computer programs useful for content area reading instruction: utility programs, word processing, simulations, telecommunications for access to a database, and story architecture. (HOD)

Examines the use of computers, strategies for using packaged software and the use of multimedia in the elementary school classroom. Information on telecommunication software and examples of its use are also provided. The article includes addresses and phone numbers for acquiring product information. (GLR)