The "ERIC Review" is published three times a year and announces research results, publications, and new programs relevant to each issue's theme topic. This issue explores computer networking in elementary and secondary schools via two principal articles: "Plugging into the 'Net'" (Michael B. Eisenberg and Donald P. Ely); and…

Describes the Science Learning Network, an alliance of six science centers, six K-8 schools, and an industry partner. Investigates how the resources, communication capabilities, and collaboration opportunities provided by networked technologies can support and encourage teachers as they strive to strengthen the way they teach science and math.…

Presented is information about the National Science Teachers Association computer bulletin board, Science Line. Described are the features of the service and how teachers may gain access. (CW)

Begun in 1989, the LabNetwork is a telecommunications network for secondary science teachers and their students. Summer workshops provide teacher training in the network computer software and teaching methods based on student science projects. The development of a collaborative network-based "community of practice" is described. (SV)

This project provided access to telecommunication networks and research databases at 13 sites in the Mid-Atlantic region from May 1 to June 4, 1993. The project objectives were to pilot a regionally-developed education database; to provide access to this database and the Internet; to train participants to use telecommunications technology; to…

Presents a vision of the impact of the National Public Network and offers seven recommendations for its evolution and implementation. (MDH)

Describes a system which emulates a face-to-face classroom where groups of students can participate online using standard low cost personal computer hardware at the student's location. Provides an overview, rationale, assumptions, design problems, and limitations of the program. Discusses alternative uses and evaluation of the technique. (MVL)

Uses a modular approach so the Local Area Network (LAN) can be easily dismantled and reassembled for each class. Notes the course is evolving to keep pace with rapid advances in networking technology although only in its second year. Expands the basic LAN through the addition of second generation personal computers. (MVL)

The ways that early adopters of electronic messaging have used electronic mail (e-mail) in the schools were studied using the Unified Network for Informatics in Teacher Education (UNITE) system at the Instructional Technology Center of the University of Kansas. At the time of the study, UNITE was operating in 6 school districts and 16 schools. The…

Described are successful science activities which have been conducted on an international telecommunications network which links schools in the United States, Mexico, Japan, and Israel. Examined are several activities currently being developed. Reports an innovative way to involve a wide range of students in the scientific process. (MVL)

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)