Describes videoconferencing using Sorensen EnVision, a hardware-accelerated desktop videoconferencing solution that allows low bandwidth communication using the Internet. Presents example of its use for conducting meetings and in a variety of educational settings. (LRW)

Discusses results of a study that examined preservice and inservice teachers' use of hand-held Computer-Based Observational Assessment Tools (CBOATs) in a distance education environment using the Iowa Communications Network. The CBOAT studied was Learner Profile, which included a small bar-code reader and data management software. (LRW)

Describes the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), a digital telecommunications system. Applications of ISDN in the classroom are examined, including information systems such as computers and fax machines; video conferencing; desktop computer conferencing; and voice messaging and caller identification. Cost estimates are also included.…

Describes distance education programs in Iowa, including the Iowa Distance Education Alliance developed through the Department of Education's Star Schools Program; the use of fiber optic technology; and the Iowa Communications Network that links colleges, universities, and secondary schools with public television. (LRW)

Discussion of the adaptation of technology in higher education highlights a questionnaire that is intended to help determine how instructor-friendly video production facilities are and if they contribute to long-range voluntary faculty involvement. Based on experiences of the Courses via Telecommunications program at North Carolina State…

Discusses distance education and the need for an accepted theory. Highlights include theories of independent study; theory of industrialization of teaching; theory of interaction and communication; and equivalency theory that is based on local control, personalized instruction, and telecommunications. (LRW)

Discusses symbol systems and learning in educational media. Symbols in printed materials, video, and other electronic media are discussed; media attributes are reviewed; suggestions for student-created video productions are given; and electronic communications technology of the future is considered. (LRW)

While bridging physical distance between instructor and student in telecommunications learning is important, the potential for psychological and social distancing should not be overlooked. This article presents three phases of learner-centered distance teaching: preactive, interactive, and postactive. A table summarizes strategies for minimizing…

Compares the performance of 85 freshmen and sophomores enrolled in two sections of an online introductory networking and telecommunications course. One section utilized a network simulation package that allows the student to build and send data through different network configurations; the second section used a static network diagramming software…

Describes the Iowa General Chemistry Network that was developed to change content, teaching, and learning methods of introductory college chemistry courses. Highlights include using the Iowa Communications Network for distance education and curriculum reform, using the Internet and World Wide Web, and chemistry laboratory experiences and…

Discusses the use of interactive video in distance education and emphasizes the need for qualified instructors who can be effective with new teaching strategies. Topics discussed include telecommunications equipment; communication skills needed for working with video technology; maintaining learners' attention; and guidelines for visual graphics…

Discusses one component of the Iowa Distance Education Alliance that encouraged science reform through distance education using the Iowa Communications Network. Topics include curriculum and school reform, learning processes, student engagement and involvement, constructivism, the use of interactive television for distance education, and the Iowa…

Describes study designed to help university faculty and administrators meet the training and academic needs of students working toward careers in telecommunication management, particularly radio and television. Interviews with managers are described, and skills and attitudes are identified that are important to include in a…

This introduction to the Internet with examples for Macintosh computer users demonstrates the ease of using e-mail, participating on discussion group listservs, logging in to remote sites using Telnet, and obtaining resources using the File Transfer Protocol (FTP). Included are lists of discussion groups, Telnet sites, and FTP Archive sites. (EA)

Describes the WEB Project that used multimedia and telecommunications to change teachers' instructional practices and form a learning community among schools and cooperating institutions in discussions of student work. Discusses online design conversations; online dialogue and guidelines for participation; impact on student performance; and…