Discussed are the factors to be considered when establishing a computer network. Considered are telecommunications, in general, along with channels, switching, packet switching, transmission, multiplexing, and local area networks (LANS). (TW)

Describes the University of Alaska Computer Network (UACN) which is beginning to electronically link educators from widely scattered geographical areas of the state. Discusses the procedures for becoming involved in the network and the sattelite technology used. (TW)

Distance learning programs, services and clients since 1975 at California State University, Chico, are described. Background, funding, and the teleconferencing network are discussed. (CW)

Asserts that future distance education will be dominated by the virtual school. Measures the potential of telecommunications, computer assisted learning, audio/visual systems and computer conferencing against the definition of a virtual school. Concludes that conferencing is the only technology capable of serving as the basis for a virtual school.…

Describes efforts underway at Pennsylvania State University to link branch campuses using compressed videoconferencing. Discusses the plans for using this technology for a variety of administrative and instructional purposes. Outlines the costs associated with developing such a system. (TW)

Describes the development of a network of 10 sites in Minnesota involving two-way interactive television systems. Discusses the instructional uses of the system, including its potential for use in community education. Outlines the efforts underway at three educational cooperatives which are using the system for instructional and administrative…

Explains the videotex technology and its current uses in business, banking, news, and entertainment. Describes a project underway at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in which the potential of using videotex in education is being explored. Provides examples of videotex use in indepentent study, courses, and home study. (TW)

Discusses the telecommunications systems in operation at Buena Vista College in Iowa. Describes the systems' uses in linking all offices and classrooms on the campus, downlinking satellite communications through a dish, transmitting audio and video information to any set of defined studio or classroom space, and teleconferencing. (TW)

Assesses BRUNET, a campuswide network that links more than 100 academic and administrative buildings and 40 dormitories. Notes a key element is hierarchical network management and support. Discusses the deployment, security, and use of four networking spheres in the system. (MVL)

Discusses instruction that occurs at a point distant from the location of the learner(s) with an interactive video and/or visual component. Stresses the need for developing such instructional capabilities for schools, businesses, and industries. Describes audio-graphic teleconferencing, microwave transmission, instructional television fixed…

Investigates Project CANS (Computer-Assisted Network Systems), a program to develop computer-assisted instruction, computer-managed instruction and computer-managed classroom activities in Cook County, Illinois. Discusses the operation of the program since 1984. Provides a description of the equipment available to each classroom and building. (MVL)

Reports on the development of the High School of Telecommunication Arts and Technology in Brooklyn, New York. Describes the overall goals of the high school's program, the make-up of the student body, the development of the curriculum, and the computer capabilities of the school. (TW)