Local area networks (hardware/software devices linking computers together for economy, instructional control of classrooms, and data management, and communications) have great potential for schools. Nature of these networks, district and campus trends, and guidelines for schools are discussed. (JN)

Findings of a North Dakota survey described the extent of use of AGNET, a computer network, among extension agents. Demographics, previous training, and client demand were the most influential factors. High-quality training would affect adoption and usage of such an educational/informational tool. (SK)

BITNET is a growing computer network of increasing importance to colleges and universities, research institutions, and the EDUCOM organization. The current status of BITNET, examples of its use, connections to other networks, probable growth path, and the new Network Information Center at EDUCOM are discussed. (JN)

A computer bulletin board system (BBS) called "A Place with No Name" was developed for the gifted and talented community in the greater New Orleans (Louisiana) area. The BBS values warmth, responsiveness, and intelligence; has a system of user classes to reward users who contribute most to the quality of discussion; and currently offers…

The purpose of videotex, its effect on the general consumer, and its use by Clemson University (South Carolina) are discussed. Videotex, a technology vehicle designed for the delivery of home information services, is not complicated. The simplicity of videotex makes it an ideal medium for the dissemination of information on a university campus…

A personal overview of the economics of computer use in information systems. (PF)

BITNET is a computer network designed to facilitate communications among universities by lowering the threshold of effort normally associated with other means of exchange. Discusses purpose, characteristics, uses, and services of the network. Also discusses concerns related to the network, such as security, resource utilization, unwanted…

National intercampus computer networks are discussed, along with six illustrative networks. Attention is focused on computer networks with significant academic usage through which special software is available to manage resources in the network. It is noted that computer networks have widespread use among academics for communication in the form of…

The evolution of PRIME networking at the University of Arizona is described. A network of super minicomputers dedicated to administrative computing was established that accommodated online, interactive applications and that supported a variety of software packages to aid in the rapid development of systems. The first microcomputer, a PRIME 550,…

In 1972 there were 33,000 Telex installations in the United Kingdom with 240,000 predicted by 1983. The feasibility of using these Telex systems for on-line accession of computer based information systems was investigated in this report. Comparisons between the Telex system and the Teletypewriter or Teleprinter system now in use reveal that the…

During the 1980's, the educational community has been keeping its eye hopefully on several campus-wide networking projects. Included are reports on progress in networks and networking at Carnegie Mellon University, the Massachussetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and at Brown University. (JN)

This paper describes the design and construction of a local network of microcomputers at the Electrical Computer Engineering Department at Florida Institute of Technology. The design criteria for such a network and the possible applications are discussed. (JN)

Computer networks meet the needs for instructional programs, management information systems, and library media services in many schools and universities. In most cases, existing telephone lines can be used; however, dedicated lines should be considered if use is likely to be extensive. Planning for network growth is essential. (MLF)

Western Carolina University (W.C.U.) MicroNet is designed to improve mathematics and science teaching by forming a support network for teachers. Describes: (1) the W. C. U. MicroNet system; (2) advantages of the network for students, teachers, and the university; (3) successes and problems; and (4) future endeavors. (JN)

A look at the Iowa Regional Network, which was established in order to provide large scale computing capability to medium sized institutions, and to share experience in developing the use of computing in support of instruction. (Author)