This paper reports on a study involving the design of a virtual community for informal learning about Thai herbs. The community relied on social networking tools and a database of expert knowledge as well as community coordinators. One group of coordinators (Community A) concentrated efforts in recruitment of members on those individuals most…

In this paper, we propose a grouping strategy to enhance the learning and testing results of students, called Pairing Strategy (PS). The proposed method stems from the need of interactivity and the desire of cooperation in cooperative learning. Based on the social networks of students, PS provides members of the groups to learn from or mimic…

The "cyberinfrastucture" is a broad informational network that entails connections to real-time data sensors as well as tools that permit visualization and other forms of analysis, and that facilitates access to vast scientific databases. This multifaceted network, already a major boon to scientific discovery, now shows exceptional promise in…

With the vast development of various technologies, learning today is no longer confined to classrooms with lecture delivery as the only method of conveying knowledge, rather, an electronic means of learning has continued to evolve. Electronic learning (e-Learning), which facilitates education using communications networks, has made learning…

The evolution of value-added network services (VAN), current technology, and some of the major VAN vendors and types of services for universities are described. A network glossary is included. (MLW)

Discusses a project at Bank Street College called "Earth Lab: A Network for Young Scientists." Explores how the use of a local area network might alter the academic environment in which students work. Reviews student databases, teacher-made databases, online databases, and electronic mail. (MVL)

This report is intended to serve as a focus for developing a commitment for continuing investment in computer support for education, research, and administration at the University of Saskatchewan. Based on the assumption that effective utilization of computers, computer networks, and other telecommunications technology is essential to the…

Designed for educational evaluators, this paper discusses reasons for the growing concern with linking or interfacing computers for information sharing; compares three major approaches to linking; and discusses the implications of each. An initial overview presents three linking applications in educational evaluation: (1) linking microcomputers…

General information utilities and specialized networks, such as PoliNet, provide educators and researchers in public administration and allied fields with a diversity of new tools which include: (1) bibliographic searching; (2) international teleconferencing; (3) electronic news clipping services; (4) electronic mail; and (5) free public domain…

Describes the results of a three-year study that tracked actual and perceived future use of electronic communication for teaching, research, service, and personal activities by faculty at Eastern Illinois University. Use before and after a local area network (LAN) installation is discussed, and previous research is reviewed. (20 references) (LRW)

Details a rationale for teacher shared information. Outlines possible content to include in such a network. Describes advantages and implications a database might have for teachers. (RT)

The present state of the educational use of computer communications networks in Japan is outlined. Computer communication is now growing rapidly in Japanese society as a whole, and its educational community is not an exception. After giving general figures on the use of computers in Japanese education and describing government proposals on…

Reviews networking projects that have been developed by educational institutions and computer companies. Highlights include minicomputers that network personal computer workstations; voice mail messages; data processing systems; linking university databases; the National Science Foundation Network (NSFNET); a computer link between a high school…

This study examined factors influencing the use of electronic networks by science and engineering faculty (216 faculty members) at six small universities. Survey included e-mail, electronic discussion groups, accessing remote databases and remote computer facilities, and file transfer. For each service, data are reported for frequency of use by…

Discusses some of the uses of teleconferencing for administrators, teachers, and students. Explains the basic concepts behind teleconferencing, providing examples of online systems and their potential for use by educators. Describes some advantages and disadvantages for both educators and students in utilizing this technology. (TW)