Provides a primer on multimedia instructional technology, including examples of applications from the Maricopa Community Colleges. Identifies needed equipment and software components, the players in multimedia development and use; various uses of multimedia; and issues to consider. Looks at ways community colleges have overcome problems and…

Explains how to use technology to enhance learning and teaching in the community college, and how to provide adequate user support for computer systems. Describes the technology plan implemented at Howard Community College. (JDI)

Reports that Virginia's community colleges have joined the partnership to establish a statewide Internet2 (I2) next-generation network. I2 will provide enough bandwidth capacity to allow robust distance education initiatives and a converged network--which implies that voice, data, and video traffic is carried over one physical structure--and to…

Reports that all 58 of North Carolina's community colleges have collaborated to form the Virtual Learning Community. States that thousands of students are now enrolled in more than 60 distance learning courses, while another 50 courses are being planned. Describes planning and development of program, as well as challenges. (NB)

Argues that community colleges should require students to own laptop computers, and that costs should be calculated into the need for financial aid so that no one will be deterred from owning laptops. States that requiring students to own laptops dramatically reduces technology costs for colleges. (NB)

Describes the creation of the Colorado Electronic Community College, a virtual college started by the Colorado Community College and Occupational Education System (CCCOES) in which students enroll via distance learning. Technology such as videoconferencing, the Internet, and CD-ROMs allow for the development of this new educational model. (VWC)

Discusses the use and unregulated growth of the Internet in the private sector, higher education, and businesses. Reports on the initiatives underway within the national higher education community that focus on creating Internet 2, the next generation of online applications, services, and technologies. (VWC)