A new educational simulation tool designed for the generic study of wireless networks, the Wireless Fidelity Simulator (WiFiSim), is presented in this paper. The goal of this work was to create and implement a didactic tool to improve the teaching and learning of computer networks by means of two complementary strategies: simulating the behavior…

We implemented two local area network (LAN) projects in our introductory data communications and networking course. The first project required students to develop a LAN from scratch for a small imaginary organization. The second project required student groups to analyze a LAN for a real world small organization. By allowing students to apply what…

A master's comprehensive University is planning a learning commons to support undergraduate learning. The planning process included a literature review, site visits to commons, consultations with experts in the field, discussions with campus specialists, and surveys of patrons. The literature reports two primary forms of data gathering for…

The Computer Chronicle Newswire Network (for Inter Learn, Inc.) offers an electronic newswire service modeled on United Press International (UPI) and Associated Press (AP) specially designed to help young people publish their own local versions of an international newspaper. The network is described, with information on how to join provided. (JN)

Examines a continuum of classroom uses for telecommunications, in terms of both their appropriateness and their ease of use for students and educators. Focuses on four projects that involve people-to-people contact around the world via computer and modem. (SR)

Describes The Web, a Toronto-based electronic-mail information network linking environmental, peace, and social issues activists across Canada, and connected by cross-links to EcoNet in the United States and Internet worldwide. Discusses the uses of "ecolinking" in environmental education. Presents examples of student environmental projects…

A science teacher at small, rural Sheridan High School (Oregon) describes the development of a three-county telecommunications network for science teachers; benefits of the network in relieving teacher isolation and providing resources; and teacher and student use of the network in project-based science instruction. (SV)

Discusses ways to use the Internet as a pedagogical tool in higher education, with illustrations from techniques and resources used in a graduate course in accounting information systems. Examples include use of an online textbook, an Internet-based project, electronic mail, a class Web page, and Internet searching to find course-related…

A physics and chemistry teacher from rural Elmira High School (Oregon) describes his own and his students' experiences with the LabNet teacher telecommunications network and related project-based science instruction; the reactions of teacher colleagues and administrators to LabNet; and technological, psychological, and resource-related barriers to…

Describes how the World Wide Web can be used to recognize student talent and acknowledge achievement. Discusses the Hillside Elementary School (Minnesota) project where students used the Internet for research and publication. Identifies educational community groups that can be recognized using the Web, and notes school marketing benefits. (AEF)

Discusses the impact of the telecommunication experience on student skills (thinking, reading, writing, group dynamics, and basic computer literacy) and student motivation and attitudes (educational attitudes, self-concept, and world view). Discusses indirect learning as the heart of the project approach to education. Lists research questions on…

The experiences of two teachers describe how BreadNet, an online professional-development and educational conference, enables teachers with similar interests to work together and maintain a sense of community. BreadNet allowed their rural schools to participate in projects with distant schools, leading to improvements in the quantity and quality…

The Global Schoolhouse, a K-12 Internet project, connects schools nationally and internationally and demonstrates how the Internet can be used as a tool for research and as a medium for interactive and collaborative learning. (Author/AEF)

Introduces a new way for students to evaluate the quality of sites on the Internet. Takes the students through six main points to accomplish this evaluation in the classroom. By following these guidelines, students can develop their critical-thinking skills about the quality of accessible technology. (MJP)

Maintains that the use of electronic mail to link students from other states and nations is an effective way to heighten student interest and improve instruction. Describes electronic pen pal programs linking students in New Zealand, England, and Kansas. (CFR)