Describes a process for formulating specifications for computer-based training (CBT) vendors that fosters effective participation by the subject matter experts (SME) in an organization whose training department cannot prepare the CBT in-house. Educating the SMEs, giving the request for proposal to the vendors, and general specifications are…

Discusses the use of videodiscs in schools and suggests criteria for the selection of videodiscs and videodisc players. Topics include different videodisc formats, including CLV (constant linear velocity) and CAV (constant angular velocity); mapping; repurposing; content and age suitability; documentation; vendors; and Level I and Level II…

Describes the use of interactive whiteboards, a new type of instructional presentation technology that allows users to control computer applications from the board. Highlights include vendors; multimedia online instruction; rear-projection models; examples of classroom uses; contests and opportunities for schools to obtain interactive whiteboards;…

Provides guidelines for schools choosing a media retrieval system. Topics include broadband, baseband, coaxial cable, or fiber optic decisions; the control network; selecting scheduling software; presentation software; device control; control from the classroom; and a comparison of systems offered by five companies. (LRW)

Discusses how to determine whether computer-based training (CBT) is appropriate for particular training needs, based on the experiences of one company that needed an orientation program for new employees available on demand at a variety of locations. Highlights include criteria for selecting vendors, outcomes of CBT, and comparing costs. (LRW)

This report provides information on the educational telecommunications market. Its articles cover a wide array of applications and issues, including online services, funding for the development of statewide telecommunications networks, education-related Internet projects and products. The trends detailed in the report, and the vendors and products…

Describes how computer simulations can enhance students' learning of physiology. Discusses how computer models enhance experimentation; using computer modeling in high school science; three steps in students' writing of a simulation; and the value of simulations. Lists six software vendors who offer packages on the PC or Macintosh platforms. (AEF)

Discusses the use of multimedia equipment for distance education. Topics addressed include use of the Internet; distance learning for educators; and cable television and/or fiber optics, including interactive television and satellite technology. A sidebar lists online and telecommunications providers. (LRW)

Two articles briefly review experiences of secondary schools using DIALOG's Classroom Instruction Program, and four New Jersey school districts that have experimented with using Dow Jones News/Retrieval Service to teach online searching at both the elementary and secondary levels. An annotated bibliography lists 12 relevant journal articles and…

Although three curriculum-delivery systems which use terminals to download curriculum software from a super microcomputer offer advantages of individualized instruction over several grade levels with individual student progress reports and updated software, the expense of the initial installation makes it difficult for them to compete with…

Presents a brief background on the information revolution. Discusses universal access and the National Information Infrastructure; the constrained view of Internet providers who oppose centralization, government regulation, limitation of individual rights, and commercialism; technology use in a democratic society; effectiveness of…

A program was conducted to integrate computer technology into agriculture classrooms in 25 secondary schools and 4 universities in Arkansas. State-of-the-art technology from the AgriData Network of Milwaukee was used. The AgriData Network includes the Ag Ed Network, which offers more than 800 "live textbook" lessons with current…

Describes the Institutional Information Processing System (IIPS) Users Group and explains its role in the implementation of administrative and academic computer systems in community colleges in North Carolina. Highlights include cooperation between colleges, vendor support, the nature of a users group, training, and future possibilities. (LRW)

Explains the unique benefits of using simulation software in place of physical experiments testing in high school science. Supplies detailed examples of students' usage. A sidebar presents vendors of simulation packages. (AEF)

Provides an overview of developments in computer-based training (CBT) authoring software and reviews the following products: Macromedia's Authorware, Aimtech's CBT Express, Iprax CourseWorks, Intersystem Concepts' Everest, Aimtech's IconAuthor, Innovus Multimedia, Allen Communication's QuestNet+, and Asymetrix's ToolBook II Instructor. A sidebar…