Examines potential solutions to the problem of personal computer cabling and configuration and serial port performance, namely "FireWire" (P1394) and "Universal Serial Bus" (USB). Discusses interface design, technical capabilities, user friendliness, compatibility, costs, and future perspectives. (AEF)

Summarizes the current state of the field of information technology and suggests a way of segmenting potential users of instructional programs and technologies to better match educational goals and objectives with social realities such as cost considerations. Interactive programs and distance learning are discussed and case studies are reviewed.…

Reviews technological innovations that have allowed the emergence of digital libraries and fostered new multidisciplinary collaborations; identifies areas of collaboration between librarians and engineers; and gives examples from digital spatial library projects funded by the National Science Foundation that involve maps, cataloging, data…

Defines and describes virtual reality technology and differentiates between virtual learning environment, learning material, and learning tools. Links learning rationales to virtual reality technology to pave conceptual foundations for application of virtual reality technology education. Constructivism, case-based learning, problem-based learning,…

Discusses use of a mail survey to study the extent to which the hospitality industry employs various information technologies, including computer-mediated communication systems. Finds that hotel/motel size and chain affiliation are related to information system complexity, and that chain-affiliated hotels provide less computer and…

Describes a new course that focuses on the impact of evolving communication technologies on business. Addresses how business people choose the appropriate channel for a given communication situation, and how an organization chooses technologies appropriate for its business needs. Examines strategic models, assesses specific technologies, and…

The returning student, facing technological change with many demands on her time, needs all the help academic librarians can offer. Fundamental needs include effective bibliographic instruction, informational handouts, printed directions near electronic search tools, and an emotionally supportive environment. (EA)

Discusses cooperative library development in Europe and the concept of national library policies as the result of library programs in the European Community. Topics addressed include library trends; international standards; information technology; differences in library services throughout Europe; lending and rental rights; and data protection for…

Advancements in information technology have caused many colleges and universities to reconsider the organization of the units providing information services. Ranging from joint planning exercises to full vertical mergers, changes in organizational structure are powerful tools administrators can use to integrate and effectively manage information…

Pennsylvania State University's award-winning electronic approval system allows administrative documents to be electronically generated, approved, and updated in the university's central database. Campus business can thus be conducted faster, less expensively, more accurately, and with greater security than with traditional paper approval…

Discusses the development of technical services workstations at Mann Library at Cornell University (New York). Topics addressed include project goals, communications software, the operating environment, personal information management software, implementation and training, possible future applications, and the impact of new technology…

Discussion of the evolution of a postindustrial, knowledge-based society addresses the importance of intellectual power and information technology as strategic resources, communications technology, development of the National Research and Education Network (NREN), the need for creative software applications, implications of advanced information…

Discusses U.S. science and technical information (STI) policy since the 1960s and the recent move toward a diffusion-oriented STI policy. Highlights include reasons why STI is important to national competitiveness, the National Research and Education Network as an information infrastructure, and creation of a committee to coordinate STI policy…

Discussion of the introduction of information science and technology into West German public schools focuses on the teacher education needed to support it. The West German education system is explained, the teacher education system is described, computer hardware and software are discussed, and approaches to in-service teacher training are…

A phone survey of 350 randomly selected alumni of a business school addressed the amount and type of communications training received on the job and who provided and paid for the training. Primary providers were found to be nonformal agencies. Employers were least likely to pay for training in written communication skills. (JOW)