Presents a series of questions to help rural school administrators assess their readiness to include distance learning as part of the instructional program. The questions address program need or purpose, school resources (human, facilities, and equipment), and selection of distance learning technology system. Lists brief explanations of common…

Discusses developments in distance learning technologies and uses in K-12 education. Describes applications and technologies currently in use, including electronic field trips, audiographics, interactive satellite television programs, two-way interactive television systems, and the Internet and World Wide Web. Examines future practices using…

This keynote speech discusses the rise of telecommunicated distance education in the United States. Interactive satellite broadcasts for K-12 instruction are now received by more than 1,000 schools in more than 40 states. Similarly, many states are working with two-way interactive television projects, slow-scan television systems, and…

Evaluates user response to the TI-IN Network's live interactive television courses for high school students and staff development in rural or small schools. Reports favorable responses from school principals and students but finds that students would prefer regular classroom instruction if available. (SKW)

A national survey of 130 single-campus, K-12 public schools enrolling fewer than 300 students revealed that half of the schools reported implementing some type of distance learning program, that satellite-based programs were the technology of choice, and that the mean dollars expended for distance learning ranged between $6,838 and $19,335. (LP)

The use of educational technology in rural schools can maximize the natural advantages of rural schools and alleviate the disadvantages. Rural schools often face geographic isolation, shortages in specialized staff, low student enrollments, small numbers of special needs students, limited program offerings for students, and limited opportunities…

Discusses potential of new and advancing distance learning methods for meeting educational reform mandates for increased curricular offerings in rural schools. Describes specific successful programs now using interactive television via satellite, audio teleconferencing, videotapes, and microcomputer linking. Provides names, addresses, and…

Western Illinois University, the sixth largest university in the state, opened the GTE Electronic Classroom for use by faculty and students in January 1993. The classroom is a state-of-the-art visual presentation and electronic interaction facility that promotes the use of advanced technologies for large image video projection and discussion.…

This newsletter addresses educational reform related to student use of computers and the development of computer networks in Illinois schools. This educational trend is particularly relevant for improving the educational opportunities of rural students. Both the Illinois State Board of Education and the Illinois Planning Coalition for Educational…

In remote and isolated schools where a certified teacher is not always available, or in small schools where limited student enrollments make hiring teachers for low incident courses cost-prohibitive, instruction via distance may be the "next best thing to being there." Several approaches are available: (1) satellite transmissions--the…