Describes integrated learning systems (ILSs) and their impact on education. Topics discussed include courseware; curriculum areas; instructional strategies; ILS management systems; and future trends, including IBM versus Macintosh, multimedia, networked software, and curriculum design. (LRW)

This article describes the multiple benefits of using Internet, the world's largest computer network, in health education and provides information for beginners on how to get started online. The article describes a day in the life of an Internet user, presents additional resources, and provides online addresses. (Author/SM)

Continues a description of the Usenet computer network that began in the previous issue. The effective use of Usenet is discussed, including how to screen out unwanted information, the most helpful newsgroups to access, and setting up news reader software. Ideas for library outreach services via Usenet are also suggested. (LRW)

An online system designed to help global environmental research, the electronic research system called Eco-Link draws data from various electronic sources including online catalogs and databases, CD-ROMs, electronic news sources, and electronic data subscription services to produce briefing booklets on environmental issues. It can be accessed by…

Explains light-wave communication and optical fibers. The impact of fiber optics on communication is discussed; uses of fiber optic technology in elementary, secondary, and higher education are described; and possible futures of light-wave communication are considered, including Integrated Services Digital Networks and the National Research and…

Discusses conversion projects that move information from one format to another. Planning considerations are discussed; types of conversion processes are described, including conversion between computers using software, cables, or networks; special conversions are examined, including CD-ROMs and online databases; and companies that specialize in…

In response to concerns about the cost of keeping up with individual desktop computing technology, several new solutions have emerged. Referred to as "thin clients," or network-centric computers, they include two types of desktop device: the network computer and the Windows terminal. Purchase cost, life span, support costs, and overall total cost…

Discusses the use of firewalls for library intranets, highlighting the move from mainframes to PCs, security issues and firewall architecture, and operating systems. Provides a glossary of basic networking terms and a bibliography of suggested reading. (PEN)

This paper reports the results of a study that examined the issues created by implementation of campuswide microcomputer networks in a four-year public institution of higher education, and the perspectives and attitudes from which faculty users and computer center personnel view those issues. Six questions served as the focus of the study: (1) the…

This report describes Earth Lab, a project which is demonstrating new ways of using computers for upper-elementary and middle-school science instruction, and finding ways to integrate local-area and telecommunications networks. The discussion covers software, classroom activities, formative research on communications networks, and integration of…

This document contains a compilation of overhead projection sheets from an International Labour Office (ILO) Training Course in Micro-ISIS held in March 1988, augmented by explanatory text and applications to a wide variety of databases. It is designed both to provide a visual, didactic approach to Micro-ISIS, and to constitute a quick-reference…

To illustrate the capabilities of local area networking (LAN) and integrated software programs, this paper reviews current software programs relevant to writing instruction. It is argued that the technology exists for students sitting at one microcomputer to be able to effectively carry out all phases of the writing process from gathering online…

Predicting that the teaching-learning process in American higher education is about to change drastically because of continuing innovations in computer-assisted technology, this paper argues that this change will be driven by inexpensive but powerful computer technology, and that it will manifest itself by reducing the traditional timing of…

This paper presents an interim report of a nationwide study of microcomputer networking in American libraries and information centers. The purpose of the project is to evaluate the relevance of currently available networking systems for use in libraries and information centers. Two major aspects are investigated. First, using a sample of libraries…

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)