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)

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)

School districts can obtain computer services with purchase, lease, or network options. The advantages and disadvantages of each are explained. Guidelines are offered for assessing needs and determining costs of computer services. (MLF)

The Texas Education Agency sought to create an enhanced electronic communications network (TENET) capable of transmitting information among and between the members of the public education system in Texas. They contracted with the Texas Higher Education Network (THEnet), an existing distributed network which is an NSF (National Science Foundation)…

The 1984-85 proposal for the Management of Instructional Information Systems project indicates that a project objective was "to create arrangements through which interested individuals in districts and schools can have low cost access to both research based and field based knowledge." This document (1) provides a rationale for creating a…

This guide is designed to introduce potential users of the California Language Census data to a means of accessing that data using an online, interactive computer system known as "1981 LC." The language census is an actual count of the numbers of pupils with a primary language other than English in California public schools as of March 1…

The main barrier to effective instructional practice is lack of information. Comprehensive information systems are evolving which will capture and present the information required for a truly effective and efficient education system. Barriers to computerized information systems are no longer technical but stem from a lag in the will, wisdom, and…

Discusses features of ideal basic attendance package and factors to consider in choosing a suitable package, including memory, programming language and operating system, disk capacity, time saving features, and networking, interface, coding, and block attendance update capabilities. A chart comparing 16 period-by-period attendance packages is…

This proceedings report includes 37 papers presented at the 1993 presented on the following topics: information technology in college recruiting; introductory networks in the classroom; Total Quality Management in higher education and a computing services organization; a High Tech Student Workstation; network communication for students and…

Designed to provide a starting point for the teacher without computer experience, this booklet deals with both the "how" and the "when" of computers in education. Educational applications described include classroom uses with the student as a passive or an active user and programs for the handicapped; the purpose of computers…

Microcomputers are influencing the field of school psychology. Current uses include test administration, scoring and interpretation, report writing, data management, statistics, research, time management, telecommunications networks, computer managed and computer assisted instruction, career guidance and large databases. This article reviews…

Explores the development of the systems architecture designed to meet problems identified by an evaluation of management information systems in Minnesota elementary, secondary, and vocational (ESV) education. Now a component of the long-range state plan for ESV information systems, the architecture integrates hardware, application systems, and…

The Alberta Special Education Network (ASPEN) is a computer-based communications and information network geared to the teaching and learning of exceptional children in rural Alberta, Canada. Network features include toll-free telephone access, a menu-driven user interface, training and awareness, electronic mail, weekly news, forums, and a…

Local area networks (LAN) are privately owned communication systems that connect multivendor devices at high speed. As microcomputers become more common in schools, user interest in sharing information, software, and peripherals will increase. A basic understanding of the operation of all LAN's can be gained by knowing four elements: media,…

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)