Communications technologies do more than solve practical problems such as overcoming learner distance. They can add new dimensions to courses. Although effective adult learning should not be technology driven, adult educators can take a proactive role in ensuring the appropriate use of technologies. (SK)

Explains the development of WAP (wireless application protocol), how it works, and what the major advantages and disadvantages are, especially when applied to the use of information. Topics include standardization; mobile communications; the effect of WAP on business tools, electronic commerce, and information services; consumers; corporate users;…

Predicts 10 megatrends: (1) renaissance in the arts; (2) high-wage economy; (3) decline of the cities; (4) globalization and individualization of the electronics media; (5) retraining of managers; (6) global privatization; (7) English as the universal language; (8) no limits to growth; (9) dominance of the Pacific Rim; and (10) worldwide free…

Muses on the apparently appealing possibilities of the idea of a global village. States that the term "electronic village" is a more appropriate metaphor, suggesting a strange confluence of entertainment and power, image, and reality. (PA)

An elementary school principal shares some anecdotes about Utah schools' leadership in using the Internet. He describes Salt Lake City youngsters' e-mail communications with other elementary schoolers in Russia, England, Hong Kong, and elsewhere. Although cost can be a limiting factor, the educational benefits of Net-surfing are substantial. (MLH)

To interlink major systems, some communication companies are proposing construction of communication towers on school grounds. Schools and municipal governments possess strategically located, unzoned properties. Districts planning to tap this financial oil well should draw up a lease agreement specifying property use, term, rent, access rights,…

Reviews telecommunications resources found on the Internet: newsgroups, listservs, government information sources, and telecommunications business sites. A sidebar provides a list of the resources and their Internet addresses. (JMV)

Educational technology applications in California include (1) OTAN's Online Communication System--electronic mail and an information database; (2) Educard, a computer chip card for storing and retrieving student information; and (3) staff development via satellite in Los Angeles County Schools' Educational Telecommunications Network. (SK)

Advantages to telecommuting are flexibility, control, productivity, morale, quality of life, and, for employers, access to a wider skill pool. Disadvantages are frustration, isolation, sweatshop potential, and resentment of co-workers. Business education should emphasize keyboarding, telecommunications, time management, and communication skills in…

Community must be redefined to include those based on interest, need, and commonality not bound by location, distance, or time. Technological solutions to community development provide access to the participatory process. (SK)

Analyzes the communication norms of the major forms of computer-mediated communication, including electronic mail, mailing lists, Usenet and other bulletin board systems, interactive messaging, multiuser domains (MUDs), and mass-broadcast media. New uses and the development of standards, or norms, are discussed. (Contains 11 references.) (LRW)

Responses from 55 personnel directors of Fortune 500 companies (15%) found that clerical office professionals should have knowledge of and be able to use facsimile, voice mail, and electronic mail. They recommended that educators and employers form an alliance to ensure that relevant telecommunications concepts are taught. (JOW)

Examines Africa's initiative in building a regional plan for a national information and communication infrastructure (NICIP) in every African state and the challenges and opportunities confronting Africa as it enters the information age. The role of information, communication, and knowledge in accelerating African socio-economic development is…

Presents an analytical framework for considering multi-point videoconference classroom communication. Highlights include rhetorical theory and human interaction, dramatism and the dramatic pentad, interfacing with technology, the learner/teacher relationship, student/student interface, and collaboration in the classroom. (LRW)

Examines the role of telecommunications and the information infrastructure in the economic development of Botswana. Highlights include the SADC (Southern African Development Community), the role of the World Bank in telecommunications in developing countries, and the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) agenda for global telecommunications…