Computer networks can fall into three broad categories--local area networks (LAN), microcomputer based messaging systems (this includes computer bulletin board systems), or commercial information systems. Many of the same types of activities take place within the three categories. The major differences are the types of information available and…

This report describes "AppleLink," a communications system used by Apple employees, which combines an electronic mail system, bulletin boards, and databases. The development of AppleLink from the pilot project stage is described, and the basic functions and features of the system are detailed. Suggestions are made for the use of a…

"Waterloo MacJANET," a local area network developed by the University of Waterloo for the Apple Macintosh computer, provides an environment appropriate for developing students' computer-related skills, minimizing both the human and the computing resources needed to support such courses. The system also serves as an efficient distributor…

Outlines the background and objectives of the Merrimack Education Center, discusses the role of the center as a broker of educational services and information to the Massachusetts educational community, describes the types of information resources made available through the center, and presents a vignette of a microcomputer user network. (JL)

Defines electronic bulletin boards; describes how to access information from them, several bulletin boards, and the kinds of information they provide; and lists sources for more information on electronic bulletin boards. (MBR)

Designed to assist educators in selecting a computer network, this paper contains a listing and description of seven networks that currently exist specifically for educators, and compares the quality of their services in the areas of accessibility, responsiveness, cost, text editing, humanization, guidance and documentation, control, forgiveness…

Examines technical solutions to problems of conventional scientific publishing (rapid growth, literature scatter, increasing costs, excessive delays in publication), and explores new ways of disseminating research information. Publication forms of scholarly journals, past and present, and developments in computer networking and microcomputer…

Discusses in detail the modem (short for modulator/demodulator), an electronic device which links one computer with another using telephone lines, and its importance to home computers. An extensive chart is included which gives purchasing information on low-speed and medium-speed modems. (JJD)

Evidence suggests that use of multimedia or new media can enhance selected areas of the curriculum. Library planners at the University of Southern California (USC) believe that use of multimedia to transform the World Wide Web into a research forum for scholars in the humanities facilitates and even ensures the eventual use of this material in the…

A description is given of the West Virginia Microcomputer Educational Network in the context of excellence in education and how it enables educators in schools, colleges/universities, and the State Department of Education to access and input to an information base of research findings, successful practices, and operational programs related to…

Two articles address the design of microcomputer networks and the use of local area computer networks (LAN) to improve library automation. Topics discussed include network design criteria, media for local networks, transmission mode, typical communication protocols, user interface, basic local network architectures, and examples of microcomputer…

Discusses the need of developing countries to set up local databases and exchange information; outlines Unesco General Information Programme's role in this context; describes a specific Unesco program to help member states acquire and use microcomputer software; reviews criteria for software selection; and describes the program's implementation…

The factors that may determine the rate at which the technological and economic components of communications-based content distribution may come together with the cultural changes necessary for its widespread use are addressed. (MLW)

The factors that may determine the rate at which the technological and economic components of communications-based content distribution may come together with the cultural changes necessary for its widespread use are addressed. (MLW)

The provision of information through videotex in West Germany is described. Information programs and services of the Gesellschaft fur Information und Dokumentation (GID) and its cooperative partners are reviewed to illustrate program contents, a marketing strategy, and the application of gateway technology with mainframe and personal computers.…