This paper attempts to put telecommunications into a realistic perspective, provide an overview of selected telecommunication technologies, and examine the impact of telecommunication technologies on nursing education and the preparation of graduates for the 21st century. Trends in nursing practice are outlined in terms of their impact on nursing…

This digest reviews the promise and drawbacks of computerized learning programs and telecommunication technologies for small rural schools. A critical feature of programmed learning packages can be their stand-alone feature. To the extent that such programs do not require the presence or involvement of a trained on-site teacher, they make it…

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)

This paper describes the first venture of the author (a professor at Kentucky's Morehead State University) into the world of distance learning technology, specifically interactive television. Highlights include the one-way video classroom; multimedia development; compressed video classroom; and use of listservs. An informal evaluation of the…

In December 1990, in an effort to identify the telecommunications and electronic technologies that will be used in the 1990s for distance learning programs at postsecondary institutions, questionnaires were sent to the chief executive officers of all two-year institutions nationwide, and to a random sample of 750 four-year baccalaureat…

Technological delivery systems currently available or in use are examined for adaptability by rural schools, especially high schools faced with increasing demands to expand curriculum. This report focuses on the Mid-Continent Regional Educational Laboratory's (McREL's) service area of Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South…

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…

The following papers are included: "Assessment of Telecommunications Needs at the Texas Department of Health" (Adair, Griffin, Steinhausen); "Realizing the Democratic Ideal in Adult Distance Learning" (Boyd, Dirkx); "Classroom Social Interaction" (Burkhart-Kriesel); "Interaction Analysis of an Inter-University…

This book explores emerging technologies and their use in secondary and higher education and in private, corporate, and government training environments. In addition to providing specific classroom applications of technology, the book treats issues of research, technology assessment, legal, copyright, and privacy rights, ethical considerations,…