The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers recently approved a high-speed wireless standard that enables devices from different manufacturers to communicate through a common backbone, making wireless local area networks more feasible in schools. Schools can now use wireless access points and network cards to provide flexible…

Basic information for teachers on using computer networks is offered, including local area networks; national and global networks; electronic mail; finding a connection (local bulletin board systems, college and university computer systems, and state and regional systems); and the Internet. (DB)

This supplement offers a practical guide for wiring school classrooms for local area networks (James P. Tenbusch and Harry Vaughan); shows how a California school district built a network infrastructure from scratch (James Klein); and describes how a Utah district negotiated cheap, fast Internet access over plain old telephone wires (Mary…

Discusses some of the reasons why some schools are using their computers to form local area networks (LANs). Presents some low-cost alternatives to full-fledged networking systems. (TW)

Explains the myths and marvels of computer networks; cites how several schools are utilizing networking; and summarizes where the major computer companies stand today when it comes to networking. (MLF)

A district-wide Intranet offers school districts the potential for communication, efficiency, and organizational growth. This paper explains the difference between the Intranet and Internet, discusses how the Intranet can help schools, and notes potential problems when working with it. The paper recommends learning to communicate and collaborate…

Offers a view of the current technologies for computer networking in schools along with cost-performance comparisons that planners need to take into account when deciding on networking systems. (MLF)

This issue of "The Electronic School" features a special forum on computer networking. Articles specifically focus on network operating systems, cabling requirements, and network architecture. Tom Wall argues that virtual reality is not yet ready for classroom use. B.J. Novitsky profiles two high schools experimenting with CD-ROM…

Describes the use of computer networks and integrated learning systems (ILS) in education. File servers are explained; operating system software is discussed; hardware differences between local area networks (LANS) and integrated learning systems are described; criteria for purchasing ILS are presented; and initial costs are mentioned. (LRW)

Discusses local area networking and global telecommunications. Examines the advantages of networked systems; the importance of connecting classrooms to the Internet or commercial online systems; and how World Wide Web, hypermedia, and the development of browsing software may revolutionize teaching and learning. Terminology and tools used in…

Local area networks (LANs) are systems of computers and peripherals connected together for the purposes of electronic mail and the convenience of sharing information and expensive resources. In planning the design of such a system, the components to consider are hardware, software, transmission media, topology, operating systems, and protocols.…

Presents insights of what does and doesn't work in school library local area network (LAN) printing in terms of five "myths": (1) "You need a network to share a printer;" (2) "Printing is much faster on a network;" (3) "All printers are created equal;" (4) "If one is good, two are better;" (5) "I'll never learn." (AEF)

Due to wiring limitations, network access in schools is often limited to a computer lab and a couple of classroom terminals. By exchanging cables for 500-ft. wireless connections, a South Carolina district has been able to spread network and Internet access where and when it is needed. (MLH)

This document chronicles a project called Model Nets, which studies the characteristics of computer networks that have a positive impact on K-12 learning. Los Alamos National Laboratory undertook the study so that their recommendations could help federal agencies wisely fund networking projects in an era when the national imperative has driven…

This paper identifies a paradigm shift that must take place in school networking. The ultimate goal is to retool the schools with a local technical infrastructure that gives teachers and students immediate access to communication systems and information resources, thereby supporting the implementation of advances in pedagogy and educational…