This book is geared for beginners in the use of personal computers for everyday academic purposes. The information is generic, and is not directed exclusively to IBM users, Macintosh users or NeXT users. The chapters focus on the following topics: (1) introduction to the purpose of the book; (2) personal computer systems such as hardware and…

Describes research undertaken at Open University (Great Britain) and Deakin University (Australia) in the use of international communication by electronic mail for (1) the collaborative study of distance education and (2) use of international course teams in preparing distance teaching materials. The electronic mail system and difficulties…

Reports the results of a survey designed to determine the frequency and purpose of individuals' use of electronic mail in relation to their professional development. Survey was distributed using three newsletters found on BITNET. Finds that electronic mail is replacing other means of communication and stimulating new communication among diverse…

This guide discusses four types of microcomputer-based communication programs that could prove useful to evaluators: (1) the direct communication of information generated by one computer to another computer; (2) using the microcomputer as a terminal to a mainframe computer to input, direct the analysis of, and/or output data using a statistical…

Reviews a computerized monitoring system for distance education students at Athabasca University designed to solve the problems of tracking student performance. A pilot project for tutors is described which includes an electronic conferencing system and electronic mail, and an evaluation currently in progress is briefly discussed. (LRW)

One of the most recent technological systems to be adopted for use in distance education is computer-mediated communication (CMC), which typically includes computer conferencing, electronic mail, and electronic bulletin boards. The purpose of this review is to provide teachers, researchers and administrators with a practical summary of current…

The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of using an electronic bulletin board in an off-campus doctoral program (Ed.D.) for health professionals offered by the University of Georgia. Participants included 14 doctoral students (13 female and 1 male) enrolled in an advanced course, Research in Instruction, who received training in…

Examines potential of computer communications in distance education based on trials of electronic mail and computer conferencing at British Open University. Highlights include descriptions of two courses that experimented with MAIL MANAGER electronic mail software, and a discussion of the role of tutors as potential moderators of conferences.…

Reviews database management software options for academic applications of pedagogy and research offering practical suggestions on choosing software. Software reviewed includes dBase III, Reflex, FYI 3000, Notebook II, AskSAM, Electra-Find, and Practicase. Program advantages, disadvantages, features, flexibility, and costs are discussed. A…

Describes and evaluates a project which used electronic mail in correspondence teaching for geographically isolated elementary level home students. Problems with equipment used for communication--videotex, facsimile, computers, and telephones--are discussed together with reasons for the generally successful outcome of the project. Sample materials…