Running multimedia on a network, often difficult because of the memory and processing power required, is becoming easier thanks to new protocols and products. Those developing network design criteria may wish to consider making use of Fast Ethernet, Asynchronous Transfer Method (ATM), switches, "fat pipes", additional network…

Many school business officials have turned to computer equipment leasing. A lease arrangement permits administrators to stretch annual budgets, to appropriate funds, and to easily upgrade or change equipment. Another alternative to high-cost computer purchase is to buy or lease used equipment. (MLF)

Attempts to persuade friends and colleagues in the computers and writing community to do more to ensure that the Web pages (especially for classes) are accessible to people with disabilities. Raises this issue as a matter of some urgency in light of the surging interest in multimedia and visual rhetoric represented by this special issue. (SG)

Contains an interview with the president of the Technology Applications Group, Thomas F. Davis, regarding the future of the technology field. Davis offers suggestions for school business officials who are responsible for purchasing future hardware, software, and technology, and describes trends in the technology industry. (Four references) (LMI)

Outlines a systematic approach for evaluating the needs and potential problems involved when school districts seek to update their current information systems. Considers the following components: financial, technical, computer literacy, and information system management infrastructure. (MLF)

Open systems are computer systems designed to meet vendor-neutral international standards. Significant characteristics of open systems are portability (software will run on dozens of hardware programs) and interoperability (computers of different brands can be connected and share resources). Discusses options available to switch to an open system.…

Guidelines for educational Web sites are discussed: determining the purpose; providing essential identifiers; determining page length; revising; establishing Internet Child Safety rules; providing a model for observing copyright law; providing links to home pages; using professional language; using images judiciously; assuring the page looks good…

The technology team in a suburban Cleveland (Ohio) school district saved thousands with do-it-yourself wiring work in four schools and the district office and kindergarten building. Classrooms, labs, and libraries have been wired, and selected areas in each facility are now being connected to the Internet. (MLF)

This paper presents ideas to help educators develop a Web page geared to supplement classroom instruction. These suggestions include: (1) keep it simple, initially; (2) organize; (3) use tables; (4) apply color; (5) provide images; (6) consult others; (7) get class feedback; (8)consider a discussion forum; and (9) link to other sites that relate…

Computer system hard drives will fail at some time. Stresses preparing to cope with emergencies that cannot be prevented, including making arrangements for use of an alternative computer in case of system failure. Outlines requirements for a computer environment; explains that backup is the key to disaster recovery. Describes four public domain…

Provides the criteria for the virtual reality (VR) system to deliver a new model of instruction, i.e,. synthetic experiences that learners remember as their own. Guidelines and recommendations to aid developers and instructional technology are presented. (AEF)

Discussed are several designs for integrating computers into the instructional program of the school. Included are the classroom based computer, the laboratory model, and the mini-lab model. Floor plans and suggestions are included. (CW)

Offers basic information for childcare directors on purchasing computer hardware and software for the center. Covers reasons for having computers, downsides to computers, the kind of computer to buy, minimum requirements for Windows-based computers and Macintosh computers, and other accessories. Presents brief descriptions of 9 software packages…

For educators interested in developing Web sites, four major issues should be addressed--ethics, prerequisites, design, and layout. By giving attention to these four areas, teachers will develop Web sites that improve their teaching and increase the opportunities for student learning. Each of these areas is addressed in detail, including:…

Presents a 10-step goal-oriented method for establishing an electronic college. Commitment to training, support, and motivation of people is advocated, as well as technological expertise. Each of the steps is described in detail using the "TowerNet" system from the Adult Education Department at Pennsylvania State University as a case…