Describes videoconferencing using Sorensen EnVision, a hardware-accelerated desktop videoconferencing solution that allows low bandwidth communication using the Internet. Presents example of its use for conducting meetings and in a variety of educational settings. (LRW)

Discusses results of a study that examined preservice and inservice teachers' use of hand-held Computer-Based Observational Assessment Tools (CBOATs) in a distance education environment using the Iowa Communications Network. The CBOAT studied was Learner Profile, which included a small bar-code reader and data management software. (LRW)

Describes the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), a digital telecommunications system. Applications of ISDN in the classroom are examined, including information systems such as computers and fax machines; video conferencing; desktop computer conferencing; and voice messaging and caller identification. Cost estimates are also included.…

Describes distance education programs in Iowa, including the Iowa Distance Education Alliance developed through the Department of Education's Star Schools Program; the use of fiber optic technology; and the Iowa Communications Network that links colleges, universities, and secondary schools with public television. (LRW)

Discussion of the adaptation of technology in higher education highlights a questionnaire that is intended to help determine how instructor-friendly video production facilities are and if they contribute to long-range voluntary faculty involvement. Based on experiences of the Courses via Telecommunications program at North Carolina State…

Discusses distance education and the need for an accepted theory. Highlights include theories of independent study; theory of industrialization of teaching; theory of interaction and communication; and equivalency theory that is based on local control, personalized instruction, and telecommunications. (LRW)

Discusses symbol systems and learning in educational media. Symbols in printed materials, video, and other electronic media are discussed; media attributes are reviewed; suggestions for student-created video productions are given; and electronic communications technology of the future is considered. (LRW)

While bridging physical distance between instructor and student in telecommunications learning is important, the potential for psychological and social distancing should not be overlooked. This article presents three phases of learner-centered distance teaching: preactive, interactive, and postactive. A table summarizes strategies for minimizing…

Describes the Iowa General Chemistry Network that was developed to change content, teaching, and learning methods of introductory college chemistry courses. Highlights include using the Iowa Communications Network for distance education and curriculum reform, using the Internet and World Wide Web, and chemistry laboratory experiences and…

Discusses one component of the Iowa Distance Education Alliance that encouraged science reform through distance education using the Iowa Communications Network. Topics include curriculum and school reform, learning processes, student engagement and involvement, constructivism, the use of interactive television for distance education, and the Iowa…

Describes the WEB Project that used multimedia and telecommunications to change teachers' instructional practices and form a learning community among schools and cooperating institutions in discussions of student work. Discusses online design conversations; online dialogue and guidelines for participation; impact on student performance; and…

Examines a nonintrusive model for technology training in teacher education and describes the University of Northern Iowa's basic preservice technology training course: educational media and classroom computing. Discusses media production, distance education, hypermedia, e-mail, telecommunications and the Internet, database construction,…

Describes a 1994 survey about an introductory class in online communications at Wright State University. Discussion includes a profile of respondents, prior online experience, personal development, impact on personal and professional knowledge and skills, impact on communication, and barriers and limitations to the effective use of…

Describes a beginning Internet course at Mankato State University (Minnesota) designed for preservice and inservice school library media professionals and students. The course addresses the following topics: electronic mail; LISTSERVs; news services; gophering; FTP; and telneting. Other skills such as downloading and locating resources are also…

Describes how schools and public libraries can link with their communities in public networks (freenets) to provide access to the Internet and other community and educational resources. Discusses the origins of cybercasting, how freenets are used, an educational online service called Academy One, telecommunications community projects in Montana…