Laptop use in class is a characteristic of universities that is changing rapidly. Although much of the attention and research regarding this issue has focused on the debate of whether to impose mandatory laptop programs, the reality of wireless campuses allows students to use their laptops in class for class related and non-class related…

Discusses current trends in the use of electronic mail (e-mail) in education. National and international academic networks are described, including BITNET and NSFNET; uses of electronic mail for faculty, administrators, and students are examined; and guidelines for using e-mail are offered. (seven references) (LRW)

Describes computer conferencing as a particularly useful alternative to traditional approaches to teaching college composition. Gives a basic outline of how an instructor might utilize computer networks to set up a composition course. (HB)

The concept of convergence has evolved significantly during recent years. Today, "convergence" refers to the integration of the communications and computing resources and services that seamlessly traverse multiple infrastructures and deliver content to multiple platforms or appliances. Convergence is real. Those in higher education, and especially…

In the past decade, theories of the social construction of knowledge have resulted in the widespread use of collaborative learning techniques. Computer technology has been in the forefront of this movement, with one result being a minor revolution in writing instruction. Specifically, communications and text sharing through both local and wide…

This article is adapted from the introduction to EDUCOM's forthcoming book, Campus Networking Strategies, which includes 10 case study chapters detailing academic experiences with computer networking. Topics discussed in the introduction include network issues for management, networking economics, engineering and telecommunications issues, and…

Describes the 14 winners of the 1989 EDUCOM/NCRIPTAL (National Center for Research to Improve Postsecondary Teaching and Learning) Higher Education Software Awards. Highlights include curriculum innovation, collaborative programs on computer networks, interactive video, hypermedia, an increase in humanities participation, and general trends in…

Focuses on communication via electronic networks as a unique form of discourse that exists on a continuum between context-dependent interaction of oral conversation and the abstracted composition of written text. Reviews research in related fields of psychology, composition theory, computer and information sciences. Suggests directions for further…

Discusses the rise of computer networks, telecommuting possibilities, the growing global economy, and possible resulting trends in the population of cities. Implications for higher education are suggested, including the centralization of certain core operations and the decentralization of other services to address the varied needs of students.…

Illustrates the diversity and complexity of the issues arising from new communication technologies. Traces the development of two of these issues: computer communication networks at home and the demand by Third World nations for a "New World Information Order." (MS)

The unexpectedly rapid expansion of the Internet in Eastern and Central Europe is having a significant effect on institutions of higher education, still suffering from decades of isolation. The benefits include global access to information and cost-effective communications. A number of international efforts are under way to expand Internet access,…

Strategies at several private and public colleges and universities to support advancing information technology are described. Trends include distributed computing, database connectivity, and increased computer use in teaching. Common instructional concerns include facilitating use of technology and developing "supertech" classrooms.…

The commoditization of low-cost hardware has enabled even modest-sized laboratories and research projects to own their own "supercomputers." The authors argue that this local solution undermines rather than amplifies the research potential of scholars. CIOs, provosts, and research technologists should consider carefully an overall…

Based on the findings of a content analysis of representative literature on educational technology, this report examines trends in educational technology from October 1, 1994 through September 30, 1995. Eight trends for 1995 are identified and discussed: (1) computers are pervasive in schools and higher education institutions and virtually every…

This paper synthesizes current thought about the role of networking technologies in instruction and addresses the need for higher education to create affordable and flexible student-centered "distributed learning environments" employing networking technologies. First, relevant trends are identified in the areas of information volume, technology…