This SPEC (Systems and Procedures Exchange Center) Kit presents the results of a survey of Association of Research Libraries (ARL) member libraries designed to investigate the changes in research library systems operations since 1994 and to identify future trends. A total of 70 of 124 ARL member libraries responded to the survey. A copy of the…

The IT 3050 course at Capella University is an introduction to fundamental computer networking. This course is one of the required courses in the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program. In order to provide a more enriched learning environment for learners, Capella has significantly modified this class (and others) by infusing it…

This report represents the phase two evaluation of the New Zealand Ministry of Education's "School's Network," or "Schoolsnet." The Schoolsnet is a computer service offered by the Ministry of Education as a pilot project that allows teachers and students to gain access to a computer-based communications and information system.…

Geared toward librarians who frequently work with faculty and graduate students, this paper summarizes the experience of the library at the University of Southern California in organizing and conducting several subject specific workshops on using the Internet as a research medium. It examines the practical issues on how to approach the task of…

The World Wide Web is a powerful and versatile resource for documents librarians. It can serve as a source of information for patrons looking for government information, as a means of publicizing and distributing local information and services beyond the walls of the depository library, as a tool for more effective administration of a documents…

For many librarians and information specialists, the World Wide Web presents a challenge, not only in terms of organizing information, but in creating a visual package that piques the user's curiosity and interest as well as provides orientation to a site. Creating original graphics gives a Web site a unique identity, and forces the designer to…

The Telecommunications Act of 1996 directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to include support for advanced telecommunications--such as the Internet and computer networking--for elementary and secondary schools, public libraries, and nonprofit rural health care providers among the Universal Service Fund (USF) mandates. In its plan, the…

Two papers addressing the practicalities of developing and managing a Web page include: "Managing a Web Node" (John Messing); and "Creating and Managing a School Library Web Page" (John Carr). The first paper discusses five areas in planning/managing a Web page: skills required; hardware and software requirements; planning…

Nova Southeastern University (NSU) is constantly striving to expand the concept of the classroom and fulfill the mission of the university, which includes serving the educational needs of employed professionals, regardless of their schedules and distance from the central campus. "Distant learners" include those whose job demands, family…

This Proceedings contains 53 of the 67 papers reviewed and selected by the Organizing/Reviewing Committee for presentation at the National Online Meeting, 1999. The volume begins with the introductory presentation by the Program Chairman, Martha E. Williams, "Highlights of the Online Database Industry and the Internet 1999." The balance of the…

This book offers an updated look at the technologies that are impacting education. Designed for educators who are interested in the instructional applications of technology, the book provides information about current technology standards for students and teachers, as well as research related to the effectiveness of technology in education. It…

Examines computer-mediated communication (CMC) in higher education, particularly the evaluation of network resources for course-related student communication. Presents case studies of e-mail seminars in Scottish language studies and music, demonstrates the significance of emphasizing process over outcome, and discusses factors affecting CMC usage:…

In a time of fiscal belt tightening, many states will hesitate to launch new multimillion-dollar distance education network projects. Instead they will concentrate on regulatory initiatives to stimulate the development of affordable advanced universal service by the private sector. Discusses the limitations of state regulatory strategies in the…

Discusses issues and trends affecting Canadian academic libraries that were major themes at the 1996 Canadian Library Association annual conference in Halifax (Nova Scotia). Topics include government funding decreases; restructuring in education and library services; consortia; library cooperation and collaboration; computer networks; interlibrary…

Discussion of multimedia networked learning products focuses on the development of materials for a class at Queen Margaret College (Scotland). Examines cognitive issues, logistical procedures, support issues, ownership of materials, and management issues. (Author/LRW)