Online training through computer networks allows the provision of emotional support, privacy, objective performance evaluation, and resource sharing. Trainers must learn new presentation and advising skills. Trainees need to be self-motivated and computer literate. (SK)

Provides an overview of the relationships between service providers and network equipment manufacturers that are attempting to gain control of the information superhighway market. Traditional online services are working to develop partnerships with television networks and publishing companies and will continue to play an important role in the…

States that, like anthropology 100 years ago, studying online environments is a relatively new endeavor today. Discusses elements of an online version of ethnography, including triangulation, ethics, reflexivity, and the importance of linking online environments to real-world contexts. Describes parallels among the three stages of development of…

Describes opportunities for locating job information through online networks using the World Wide Web or commercial networks such as CompuServe, America Online, and Prodigy. Points to the Online Career Center, the Interactive Employment Network, and books that describe available services. (JOW)

Reviews computer networks and online services designed especially for teachers, as well as networks broadly targeted for business, home, and education. Presents a resources directory of networks to assist persons with disabilities. (SR)

This paper describes the advantages of using computer bulletin boards systems (BBS) for distance learning, including the use of the New York City Education Network (NYCENET) to access various databases and to communicate with individuals or the public. Questions to be answered in order to determine the most appropriate software for running a BBS…

Approaches to improved productivity in the input cycle of database creation are discussed in three papers. The discussions include problems with and potential impacts of computer support for indexers; conversion from a minicomputer based indexing and abstracting production system to a microcomputer network; and a computerized system for…

As computer databases become more publicly accessible through public networks, there is a growing need to provide effective protection for proprietary information. Without adequate assurances that their works will be protected, authors and other copyright owners may be reluctant to allow the full text of their works to be accessed through computer…

One problem with state speech organizations is the lack of common sense sometimes shown in selecting the geographic locations of the conventions. The best solution is for the conference to be held in the middle of the state, so that attendance will be greater and representation more even-handed. Some have suggested the elimination of state…

Reviews the development of telecommunications networks and describes current technology being used for online information retrieval. Highlights include use for military and research needs; experiences in Europe versus those in the United States; value-added networks (VANs); local area networks (LANs) and personal computers; and the Integrated…

"Active readers" are silent members of telecommunications networks who read but do not contribute. Often derided as lurkers, active readers benefit from their network participation and in turn professionally benefit others. A study, still in progress, is interviewing 20 silent participants of the LabNet community who have posted fewer…

Describes the advantages of the development of open systems, i.e., a configuration which combines software and hardware from separate vendors into a single system, as a means of increasing the possible applications of library automation. (CLB)

Provides an overview of databases that include the best information about Latin America. Highlights include problems with using "Latin America" as a search concept; Latin American information on DIALOG; the dominance of TEXTLINE among the major newswires; comparisons between DIALOG and other online services; specialized Latin American…

Provides small companies with limited resources some suggestions for undertaking a hypertext project. Describes how to create various forms of online documentation systems. (HB)

Describes the experiences of the American Library Association in implementing an Internet gopher to make information more available to members. Topics discussed include an explanation of gopher software; organizational considerations, including organizational values; training to improve staff familiarity with the Internet; preparing documents for…