Reviews the use of computers to support distance learning in the multimedia teaching system of the British Open University from 1980-90. Topics addressed include hardware, courses using computers, software developments, the move to microcomputers, access, authoring tools, home-based computing, funding, and the outlook for the future. (15…

Discusses the design of computer-based learning materials and computer-based learning environments. Topics addressed include learning strategies; the roles of the learner and the computer; appropriate information technology; the situated learning concept; learning environment metaphors; the use of microcomputers and hypermedia; and personal…

Discusses the use of integrated information systems in corporate settings and describes a conceptual model. Topics discussed include hardware and software, including standards; data incompatibility; problems of information access; senior management needs; organizational culture; training and personnel issues; and the impact of organizational…

Presents a first-person account of one teacher's experiences with computer hardware and software. The article discusses various programs and applications, such as integrated learning systems, database searching via CD-ROM, desktop publishing, authoring programs, and indicates future changes in instruction with increasing use of technology. (SM)

Describes an educational computer network, SuperInterface, that could be used for telestudy for university education. Topics discussed include computer-supported collaborative work; computer-based learning; multimedia databases, or electronic books; human-machine interfaces; hardware, software, and groupware; learners; teachers; organizations and…

Examines three topics related to electronic publishing and distribution: the national context, including NREN (National Education and Research Network); issues of market readiness, funding, delivery standards, access software, intellectual property concerns, and pricing and licensing models that must be resolved; and descriptions of seven services…

Providing quality personal assistance to interns and preserving faculty time for other activities is challenging for educators. Indiana University faculty developed a HyperCard software stack that allowed students to work independently, at their own pace, with selected tasks requiring faculty input during the internship preparation,…

Describes the production of a computer-aided, self-testing system for university students enrolled in a first-year course in biological psychology. Project aspects described include selection, acquisition and description of software; question banks and test structures; modes of use (computer or printed version); evaluation; and future plans. (11…

Describes how to generate automated classroom resources from the Internet. Topics covered include viewing animated satellite weather images using file transfer protocol (FTP); sources of images on the Internet; shareware available for viewing images; software for automating image retrieval; procedures for animating satellite images; and storing…

Explores design considerations for a functional microcomputer lab, including ergonomics and furnishings; access for the disabled; the use of other media; hardware security; and software security, including virus protection. A summary paragraph comments on the role of planning and forecasting. A bibliography of eight titles for further reading is…

Describes how a public library consortium jettisoned the Request for Proposal (RFP) process and used library staff, with some assistance from consultants, to evaluate new automation systems based on software demonstrations and Requests for Quotations (RFQ). The RFQ and RFP processes are compared. A sidebar article describes the financing plan.…

Describes levels of Internet connectivity, physical connections, and connection speeds. Compares options for connecting to the Internet, including terminal accounts, dial-up terminal accounts, direct connections through a local area network, and direct connections using SLIP (Serial Line Internet Protocol) or PPP (Point-to-Point Protocol). (eight…

Presents results from the 1992 Drug Use Forecasting (DUF) program that measures illicit drug use among persons arrested for criminal behavior. Adult use of specific drugs, male juvenile drug use, and the role of the DUF are explored. (GLR)

Presented is an activity in which probability and percents are taught using a basketball computer simulation. Computer programs that replicate the free-throw accuracy of college and professional stars and allow students to compete with those stars are included. (KR)

Encourages school library media specialists to explore the capabilities of hypermedia and hypertext, and lists books, articles, and guides for librarians to find out more about learning and utilizing this authoring language. Applications of hypermedia and hypertext in libraries and media centers are discussed. (20 references) (SD)