Describes uses and applications for computer networks that link K-12 schools with universities, utilizing the prototypical network in Indiana named the Student and Teachers Electronic Productivity System (STEPS). The project called the Electronic School District has used STEPS since 1987 to investigate the benefits of a widespread and innovative…

Describes telecommunications and networking developments in Australia that provide increased communication and cooperation opportunities for libraries, as well as linkages to international information sources. Staff attitudes, document access and supply, the current situation of Australian academic libraries, and the concept of a distributed…

Discussion of access to the Internet focuses on access by public libraries. Topics addressed include the role of the public library; computer and information networks; the National Information Infrastructure; the NREN (National Research and Education Network); the telecommunications industry; federal legislation; costs; file transfer protocol; and…

Considers how to plan for online reference services. Highlights include local access to databases, including CD-ROM and database licensing; local gateways; online search services; and planning considerations, including cost, locating online information, telecommunications and computing infrastructures, and equal access. (Contains 15 references.)…

Discusses research on the process of introducing telecommunication technology in K-12 classrooms. To ensure parent and teacher involvement in Internet-based collaborative learning projects, a participatory design approach is examined that allows teachers to monitor and influence project design. This approach is selected because of its…

Describes a project designed to help high school language students learn about French-speaking countries that uses HyperCard and telecommunications capabilities and can be adapted to other related curriculum areas. Highlights include cooperative group work using the Internet and creating HyperCard stacks. (three references.) (LRW)

Describes and explores the District Education Agent program, a community-based program proposed by the Subcommittee on Select Education of the U.S. House of Representatives, which is comparable to the agricultural extension service. Ways in which it might incorporate new technological capabilities are suggested. (12 references) (DB)

Describes Telecommunications Opportunities for Gifted Learners (TOGL), a state-funded project in Florida that links gifted programs in rural districts. The use of electronic mail and computer conferences is described; teacher education and training needs are discussed; and an example of a lesson plan that integrates online activities is given.…

Technologies that enhance the ability to create and understand information have led to changes in the traditional legal concepts of property, ownership, originality, privacy, and intellectual freedom. The importance of government addressing such issues and investing in development of a high-capacity computer network is discussed. (KR)

Describes the Internet Hunt, a game designed to challenge and inform librarians about information sources available on the Internet. The use of telnet, and FTP (File Transfer Protocol) are described, and the results of the first Internet Hunt are provided. (EA)

Describes the technical and social dimensions of computer-based telecommunications networks. Provides scenarios for potential use of networks in teaching and research. (DB)

The pervasive use of communication technology in schools and universities requires increased security to safeguard information confidentiality, integrity, availability, utility, and authenticity. This article, the first of two, examines procedures for implementing security policy, techniques for minimizing vulnerability, and techniques for…

Describes the use of the Florida Information Resource Network (FIRN) in Florida public schools. Highlights include electronic mail exchanges; online conferences; remote research; classroom resources; training initiatives for teachers to learn about telecommunications; access to other systems and databases; and inservice, hands-on teacher training.…

Describes tele-immersion, a new medium for human interaction enabled by digital technologies. It combines the display and interaction techniques of virtual reality with new vision technologies that transcend the traditional limitations of a camera. Tele-immersion stations observe people as moving sculptures without favoring a single point of view.…

Preparation for employment in the telecommunications area is not a major emphasis in most information system (IS) programs. The curricula of most programs include only one or two courses related to telecommunications. As a result, most do not provide much preparation for employment in this area. There may be, however, increasing employment…