The digest answers basic questions about using microcomputers for professional development in special education. Use of the microcomputer as a self-contained unit is described and the types of information available on diskette from the ERIC Clearinghouse on Information Resources are considered. The microcomputer's application in networking is…

This discussion of the potential role of telecommunications in rural development begins by identifying education, culture and recreation, social pursuits, information exchange, political activity, community development, and business opportunities as activities that might be benefitted by the use of telecommunications. The capabilities and…

During the eight years of President Ronald Reagan's administration, deregulation of broadcasting was pursued at least as vigorously as other attempts of the "Reagan Revolution" to lessen the impact and influence of the federal government. The Federal Communication Commission's (FCC) "one-to-a-market" rule (which limits licenses…

This fact sheet offers basic instructions on connecting to the ERIC database for individuals who own or have access to a microcomputer and are familiar with ERIC and how to search it through a database terminal. Software, hardware, and telephone line components necesary to make a microcomputer act as a database terminal are outlined. The…

An analysis of the patterns of use that were observed in 28 computer-based conferences involving scientists and engineers is presented. In the initial chapter, computer conferencing is discussed as a medium of communication and a description of the analytical approach is provided, as well as an overview of the 28 FORUM conferences observed. In…

Arguments for and against the major legislative proposals pertaining to the reform of the nonbroadcast part of the nation's telecommunications law which are pending before the 96th Congress are analyzed. Background information is given regarding (1) the structure of the domestic telecommunications industry, (2) the regulatory authority which…

The technology of cable television is advancing rapidly. Of prime importance to cable television in the 1970s will be the development of two-way interactive communication services on cable systems. This report describes that development; the technical, economic, and regulatory forces that influence it; and the public policy issues that it raises.…

Based on a needs assessment of intra-state and inter-state interconnection telecommunication services, the Virginia Public Telecommunications Council (VPTC) envisions a public service satellite system consisting of: (1) primarily broadband transceiver capacities to areas having state supported institutions of higher education, perhaps with common…

Utilizing books by mail and bookmobile radio communication delivery systems, rural Ohio is pioneering in new library services. (JC)

British broadcasting is made up of two distinct and clearly separable elements: the 55-year-old BBC, and the more recent interloper, independent commercial radio and television. Problems encountered by the independent broadcaster in creating an international awareness of what he produces and how he works are discussed. (Author/RAO)

In 1975 the broadcast industry in France was split into four independent program societies and three support societies, all seeking dominance of the TV ratings. Documentation of the current situation and an examination of broadcast policy is presented. (RAO)

Ontario's educational television station, TVO, has developed into one of the most exciting broadcasters in North America. Federally licensed and provincially controlled, the Toronto based system achieves quality programming amidst a maze of 22-channel offerings. (RAO)

Political turmoil since 1968 has had a limiting effect on the development of broadcasting in Portugal. This article provides background information and describes current attempts at quality television in the context of a single-channel, five-hour broadcast day. (RAO)

The Mexican television system has divided the viewing audience into four different socio-economic sectors and provides programming for each sector under a non-competitive framework through commercial sponsorship. (RAO)

Teachers are initiating computer exchanges between schools to encourage communication. Without visual clues and body language to go by, words and word skills are the only basis of communication. Projects vary from neighboring school communication to multistate and international projects. Suggestions for starting a program are included. (MT)