Distance educators should be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of new technologies as they design new programs. Two papers discuss a model for understanding the nature of the teaching and learning interaction and present a case study of the use of computer-mediated communication technology in the delivery of a graduate credit course. (JOW)

Explains Web Crossing, an Internet/intranet server application offering online conferencing solutions through discussion forums and chat rooms, that provided a context for the interaction of graduate and undergraduate students conducting educational research. Discusses knowledge acquisition, the metaphor of participation, and the impact of a…

Discussion of the Just-in-Time Open Learning (JITOL) project supported by the European Commission in its DELTA Programme considers attributes of open learning and the main tasks of learners and tutors. Information technology-based tools for open learning are described and related to these tasks, and planned JITOL user trials are summarized. (17…

This paper is based on a multiple-case study of the learning process in three asynchronous computer conferences. The conferences were part of the distance learning component in doctoral degree courses in computing technology in education offered at an American university. The conferences were analyzed from a number of perspectives, the emphasis in…

The aim of the DEDICATE (Distance Education Information Courses with Access through Networks) project, funded through the European Union, is to develop distance education courses in training for information literacy. The DEDICATE courses are based on the use of the Internet and World Wide Web; communication between participants and tutors and…

Reviews the concept of learning in distance education; explains a model that lays the conceptual foundation for successfully integrating computer-based instruction with computer conferencing for interactive distance delivery; describes a pilot project at the University of Guelph that used the model; and discusses the project's evaluation. (21…

Three articles address different uses of computers in education. British inservice training for primary school teachers using microcomputer-based adventure software is described; fundings of two Canadian projects using computer teleconferencing are reviewed; and the use of computer-assisted instruction for primary school mathematics education is…

Describes educational innovations that have taken place at Fearnhill School (Letchworth Garden City, England) as part of the Education 2000 project. Highlights include moving from teaching to learning; cooperation between teachers, community groups, and private sponsors; use of the library; computer technology, including conferencing; and the role…

Describes an integrated computer-based conferencing and mail system called ICMS (Integrated Conferencing and Mail System) that was developed to encourage students to participate in class discussions more actively. The menu-driven user interface is explained, and ICMS's role in promoting self-assessment and critical thinking is discussed. (eight…