Provides guidelines on using two national networks, BITNET and the Internet. The discussion covers electronic mail, bulletin boards, collections of public files, downloading files, logging into remote systems over the Internet, online catalogs and local databases on the Internet, and future applications. (2 references) (MES)

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…

The personal computer--with its ability to store, sort, and retrieve large amounts of data, generate reports, and graphically present statistical information--is becoming an integral tool in the administration of the modern media center. The need to share and retrieve information beyond the immediate environment of the media center has always been…

Presents an overview of telecommunications and its use in the field of education. Topics discussed include conferencing, electronic messaging, distance learning, networking, database searching, and projects relating to educational telecommunications sponsored by the International Council for Computers in Education (ICCE). (LRW)

The LISTSERV program on the BITNET computer network started as a simple mailing list program for electronic group communication. A revised version of LISTSERV now offers sophisticated new functions and help for users, including file-server functions. Problems with the revised version are noted, and computer commands are provided. (six references)…

Describes how to use the Internet to access commercial online database services, such as DIALOG, and discusses the advantages in terms of costs, reference services, and accessibility. Outlines in detail how to save a search session or link another terminal to a Telnet session, and provides information and Internet addresses for eight vendor…

This document provides information on two services established on the Internet by the National Center on Adult Literacy (NCAL): electronic mail (e-mail) communication with NCAL and a Gopher server that makes it possible to access and download information, documents, and software relevant to adult literacy. A recent "NCAL Connections" article,…

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…

Technological developments of the past decade have increased the potential of distance learning and telecommunications to help rural schools overcome disadvantages of remoteness, geographic isolation, lack of specialized staff, and limited program offerings. Classroom-focused distance learning is distance insensitive and involves transmission of a…

Discussion of the use of telecommunications in the social studies curriculum focuses on three main areas: (1) searching and reading information in databases, including the appropriate use of commercial database services; (2) electronic mail and bulletin boards; and (3) the role of the telecomputing teacher. (five references) (LRW)

Arguing that much of the information needed in the future will be available only online, using computers, modems, and telephone lines, this four-part guide is designed to provide the basic information on online communication that is needed by beginners. The introduction to the guide includes a definition of online communication, a rationale for…

This report documents the development of a long-range plan for instructional telecommunications in the Kansas Regents system. It was assumed from the outset that the plan would include provision for educational programs in the communities outside the state universities and would, in fact, extend to include a statewide computer network. The…

The purpose of this project is to investigate the potential of communication networks using electronic mail, computer conferencing, and electronic databases for education and training at a distance within the Open Univeristy system of Great Britain, although it would be applicable within other contexts. This report discusses (1) the rationale for…

A dial-access, multiuser, multiaccess CD-ROM search system with end-user capability was developed to provide Eastern Oregon State College distance education students with access to the information required by their studies. Based on UNIX, the system provides students with access to 12 databases, an e-mail system for messaging, interlibrary loan…

Describes the results of a three-year study that tracked actual and perceived future use of electronic communication for teaching, research, service, and personal activities by faculty at Eastern Illinois University. Use before and after a local area network (LAN) installation is discussed, and previous research is reviewed. (20 references) (LRW)