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;…

"The Evolution of a School Library Network: Setting up a CD-ROM Local Area Network (LAN)" describes how to set up a CD-ROM LAN in a school library, including establishing a technology plan and choosing hardware, software, cabling, and staffing. A description of the Texas Education Network (TENET) and reviews of print and electronic…

Presents guide developed by the McGraw-Hill Information Exchange (MIX) to help educators plan effectively for the use of computer telecommunications. Highlights include telephone lines; modems; software; commercial information services that offer such services as electronic mail and computer conferencing; basic costs and billing formats; and a…

Provides examples of common administrative tasks in school district offices that can be expedited using an administrative local area network (LAN). Explains how districts should develop a master plan installing a LAN. Figures display the LAN components, planning sheets, and an electrical requirement calculator chart. Discusses site preparation and…

This digest offers basic information about resources, available to users of personal computers, in the area of professional development in special education. Two types of resources are described: those that can be purchased on computer diskettes and those made available by linking personal computers through electronic telephone networks. Resources…

Local area networks (LANs) are systems of computers and peripherals connected together for the purposes of electronic mail and the convenience of sharing information and expensive resources. In planning the design of such a system, the components to consider are hardware, software, transmission media, topology, operating systems, and protocols.…

Six articles on computers in libraries discuss training librarians and staff to use new software; appropriate technology; system upgrades of the Research Libraries Group's information system; pre-IBM PC microcomputers; multiuser systems for small to medium-sized libraries; and a library user's view of the traditional card catalog. (EM)

In an era when patrons want access to CD-ROM resources but few libraries can afford to buy multiple copies, CD-ROM local area networks (LANs) are emerging as a cost-effective way to provide shared access. To help librarians make informed decisions, this manual offers information on: (1) the basics of LANs, a "local area network primer";…

Discusses factors to be considered when planning and implementing a local area network (LAN) for personal computers within a school or an organization. Topics addressed include reasons for networking, characteristics of LANs, organizing a LAN, workstations, disk servers, and file servers. (Contains six references.) (LRW)

This guide to proposed microcomputer systems and their applications for training institutions in developing countries discusses the development of such systems and recommends hardware and computer software configurations for typical training applications. Arguing that the microcomputer should be used for greater personal and institutional…

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…

Explains bandwidth in non-technical terms and why its conservation is important. Network performance is discussed, Australian networks are reviewed, and actions that can be taken by personal computer end users on the Internet and World Wide Web in the interest of conserving bandwidth are listed. (Author/LRW)

Presents excerpts from policy statements of Computer Using Educators, Minnesota Educational Media Organization, and the International Council for Computers in Education on issues relating to educational microcomputer software use. Topics covered include copy protection, illegal copying of software, back-up copies, pricing, multiple machine…

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)

Computers have changed the way information resources are handled. Large amounts of information are stored in one central place and can be accessed from remote locations. Users have a personal responsibility for the security of the system and the data stored in it. This document outlines the user's responsibilities and provides security and control…