Describes the Central Media Resource System (CMRS), a method that allows multimedia instruction to large groups of students. Highlights include the information infrastructure, including fiber optics and coaxial cable; use of the CMRS in the classroom and in the media resource center; and future possibilities, including local and wide area…

Discussion of electronic mail and computer-mediated communication focuses on local bulletin board systems (BBSs) that run on microcomputers. Uses in education and businesses are described, computer requirements and costs are outlined, bulletin board software is discussed, and echo networking is explained. (Four references) (LRW)

Discusses three evolving paradigms for supporting learning and work performance: instructional design, performance support, and network systems. Describes an overall trend toward greater flexibility and empowerment, and shows how each paradigm reflects the technologies available at the time of its initial development. (AEF)

Describes the growth of educational computer networks in three main categories: (1) networks for sharing peripheral equipment; (2) networks for exchanging information; and (3) networks for addressing instructional needs. The use of microcomputers and mainframe computers is examined, networks in public schools and universities are described, and…

Presents a case for the integration of stand-alone microcomputers into the educational environment through time-sharing networks utilizing medium to large-scale central computer facilities. The PLATO system is used to illustrate the evolution of distributed processing in the computer-based education environment. (Author)

Examines some of the problems that must be solved before the Internet can realize its educational potential, including access that is educationally beneficial; hardware and software availability; charges for Internet access; technical and curriculum support; lack of coherent structure, stability, and documentation; censorship; and quality control.…

Presents a case study of the development of a statewide distance learning system in North Dakota for elementary and secondary education as well as higher education. Initial planning and goal setting is described; computer, video, and data networks are explained; implementation plans are discussed; and organizational design is considered. (LRW)

Logical communication structures organize basic telecommunications services to meet the aims and requirements of groups working on the Internet. This article clarifies logical communication structures within an educational context and illustrates how the communication requirements of work or study groups correspond to a variety of…

Defines local area networks (LANs); describes basic components and configurations of LANs; and discusses LANs benefits (reduced costs, better management of computer resources, enhanced communications) and pitfalls (hidden costs, time delays, network maintenance, lack of standardization, network security breaches, lack of network compatible…

Discussion of the use of advanced modeling and simulation technologies in training focuses on the Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training program developed by the Air Force. Training challenges and needs are described and technology solutions are explained, including visual displays, computer-assisted instruction, instructional simulations, and…

Examines three main aspects of using the Internet in education concerning (1) activities that can be carried out on the Internet; (2) skills and knowledge teachers need to make full use of the opportunities that networking offers; and (3) classification of the educational goals that can be pursued with the aid of networking. (AEF)

Reports on the early stages of a project at the U.S. Air Force Academy, in which the instructional applications of a networked classroom laboratory, an intranet, and the Internet are explored as well as the effectiveness and efficiency of groupware and computer networks as instructional environments. Presents the results of the first pilot tests.…

Describes three encyclopedias available on CD-ROM: (1) Grolier's Electronic Encyclopedia; (2) World Book's Information Finder; and (3) Compton's Multimedia Encyclopedia. Ideas for how they might be used in the classroom are suggested, information retrieval versus motivation is discussed, learning processes are examined, and stand-alone versus…

Discusses the use of computer-mediated communications for student learning and for teacher collaborations. The use of local area networks and electronic bulletin boards is described, new networks that will serve the needs of students and teachers are discussed, and theoretical and practical approaches to research and analysis are considered. (20…

Guidelines for educational Web sites are discussed: determining the purpose; providing essential identifiers; determining page length; revising; establishing Internet Child Safety rules; providing a model for observing copyright law; providing links to home pages; using professional language; using images judiciously; assuring the page looks good…