Discussion of distance education focuses on the use of videoconferencing, also called interactive video or interactive television. Topics include video transmission; audience response pads as feedback devices; computer conferencing; document conferencing; and obstacles to videoconferencing, including incompatibility, ownership of information, and…

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 a training program developed by AT&T that videotaped a training program originally delivered by satellite broadcast and then synchronized the video course delivery at various locations. Interaction with the instructor via a conference call, including explaining the use of the accompanying printed materials, is discussed. (LRW)

Presents guidelines for moderating online educational computer conferences. Explains how to prepare for the conference, including becoming familiar with the software and developing a contract with students to ensure their participation; discusses ongoing conference activities, including focusing the discussion; and relates common problems and…

Describes various formats of teleconferencing and the technology involved, and presents guidelines for successfully conducting a teleconference in an educational setting. Highlights include preparation before the conference, such as providing proper physical arrangements and equipment; activities during the conference; and activities after the…

Discusses the following conditions that affect the quality of distance education for instructors and learners: mediation of technology, challenging administrative arrangements for remote sites, absence of visual channels of communication, and geographical dispersal of instructor and learners. Provides guidelines and activity suggestions for each…

Describes corporate training programs that use technology, including videotapes, hypermedia curriculum, and distance learning systems in the automotive industry, using fiber optics and cable to transmit university courses; the petroleum industry, using a video network; and the health care industry, via an interactive video conferencing system.…

Describes two projects that illustrate students' helping teachers use technology. In the Teacher Resources Under Student Tutors (TRUST) project, middle- and high-school students collaborate with teachers on a specific lesson. In the global videoconferencing SAXophone (Students All over the world eXchaning over the phone) project, middle and high…

Describes development and implementation of "Rube-o-Rama," a videoconferencing project conducted during the fall of 2001 between graduate students at Purdue University (Indiana) and a classroom of fifth grade students in Indianapolis (Indiana) that had Rube Goldberg as the encompassing topic. (MES)

Describes the development of a distance education graduate course at Arizona State University; the course is text-based, supported by the Internet and computer conferencing. Discusses course planning and design factors, implementation strategies, technical considerations, students' evaluations, and instructor perspectives. (AEF)

Examines the role of counselors in distance education for adult learners by highlighting case studies of student service operations in Canada and England, focusing on programs at the Open Learning Institute and Brandon University. Technology used in counseling is described, including audiocassettes, telephones, video, television, and…

Describes the Salem, New Hampshire, school district's use of technology to prepare students for the future. Technological uses of CD-ROM databases, videodisc programs, satellite programs, a school television production studio, computer labs, cable television, and distance learning labs are discussed. (EA)

Educators who do not learn to use computers and the information highway in the classroom may be depriving themselves and their students of opportunities to access information and develop skills. This article describes how K-12 and higher education teachers should approach and use technology for management, collaboration, and conferencing. Software…