The digest answers basic questions about using microcomputers for professional development in special education. Use of the microcomputer as a self-contained unit is described and the types of information available on diskette from the ERIC Clearinghouse on Information Resources are considered. The microcomputer's application in networking is…

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…

Teachers are initiating computer exchanges between schools to encourage communication. Without visual clues and body language to go by, words and word skills are the only basis of communication. Projects vary from neighboring school communication to multistate and international projects. Suggestions for starting a program are included. (MT)

The potential uses of telecomputing in the education of learning disabled secondary students are described, including electronic mail, interactive one-to-one discussions, and database searches. Related staff and administrative concerns are discussed. (JW)

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.…

Reviews job prospects for electrical/electronic E/E engineers, indicating that 1985 was not a banner year due to problems in the semiconductor manufacturing industries and in telecommunications. Also indicates that an upturn is expected for 1986 E/E graduates. (JN)

This document is designed as a comprehensive resource and guide for computer-using educators who wish to expand the scope and magnitude of their computer power through telecommunications. The major focus is on the microcomputer's ability to communicate with other microcomputers via telephone lines. Emphasis is placed upon information services and…

Outlines criteria for selecting microcomputer-based telecommunications software for educational settings. Terminal software, which provides interaction between a modem and remote terminals, is distinguished from software that allows an electronic bulletin board system to be developed, and three software packages of each type are reviewed. (LRW)

Examines issues related to using microcomputers for distance education. They include cost=effectiveness, accreditation for schools with a preponderance of courses taught via telecommunications, and such certification concerns as whether credit can be given for courses taught by teachers not certified in states into which the courses are…

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)

Provides an overview of the information technologies that best facilitate and support educational activities, emphasizing areas relevant to distance education. Technologies in the areas of video communications, audiographics, telephone systems, and computer communications are classified and described. (CLB)

A program in a special school provides 60 deaf students (ages 9-19) with microcomputer access for three to four hours per week. The microcomputer is being used to develop student writing skills (creating, editing, refining), to publish a desktop school newsletter, and to participate in a telecommunications network. (DB)

Precise educational specifications are necessary to ensure optimum use of computers for administration and instruction. Site selection and preparation requirements for a Local Area Network (LAN) are provided along with requirements for the selection and installation of a telecommunication system. (MLF)

Since electronic networking via microcomputers is fast becoming one of the most popular communications mediums of this decade, this manual is designed to help educators use personal computers as communication devices. The purpose of the document is to acquaint the reader with: (1) the many available communications options on electronic networks;…

Designed to assist educators in selecting a computer network, this paper contains a listing and description of seven networks that currently exist specifically for educators, and compares the quality of their services in the areas of accessibility, responsiveness, cost, text editing, humanization, guidance and documentation, control, forgiveness…