Introduces this issue, which contains papers from the 1991 Data Compression Conference, and defines data compression. The two primary functions of data compression are described, i.e., storage and communications; types of data using compression technology are discussed; compression methods are explained; and current areas of research are…

Explains NAPLPS (North American Presentation Layer Protocol Syntax), a graphic standard for the encoding of animated graphics, symbols as graphics, and text. Sources of information on NAPLPS are described, including shareware and other software; and use of NAPLPS on electronic bulletin board systems is discussed. (LRW)

Discusses issues in the evaluation of the use of telecommunications in distance education. Topics addressed include telecommunications technologies; evaluating instrumentation for electronic distance education; criteria for evaluating telecommunications-based distance education; and an evaluation model and its application to electronic distance…

Provides guidelines on using two national networks, BITNET and the Internet. The discussion covers electronic mail, bulletin boards, collections of public files, downloading files, logging into remote systems over the Internet, online catalogs and local databases on the Internet, and future applications. (2 references) (MES)

Highlights three areas of technology that may have an impact on the future of teaching, especially as it relates to reading: nanotechnology, hypertext, and telecommunications. (MG)

Profiles the major wireless data communications (WDC) systems, provides an overview of how they work, and compares their communication features. Topics addressed include the market for wireless data; applications for WDC; wireless online searching; cellular data communication; packet radio; digital cellular; criteria for evaluating WDC systems;…

Offers a critical reassessment of the underlying rationale for universal service policies and argues that public policies designed to promote universal telecommunications access are simply a form of wealth redistribution. Considers economic and political issues and discusses how telecommunications can help ameliorate inequalities but not eliminate…

Ethical and moral issues in the use of information and communication technologies include privacy, equal access, self-determination, and the notion of truth. The Information Society must use new technologies to promote human values and not allow the instrumentalization of human beings. (SK)

Information and communications technologies used in interactive learning environments and networked communities have led to new constructivist roles for the learner: explorer, constructor, researcher, collaborator, judge, reflective practitioner, and problem solver. (SK)

The Internet was integrated into course work to enable students to investigate contemporary issues in the area of communication technology. Students used three Web sites as primary information sources and assessed the value of the information they found. (Author/JOW)

Describes videoconferencing using Sorensen EnVision, a hardware-accelerated desktop videoconferencing solution that allows low bandwidth communication using the Internet. Presents example of its use for conducting meetings and in a variety of educational settings. (LRW)

Focuses on communications between deaf persons over telephone lines via teletypewriters (TTY). Uses sociolinguistic methods to analyze the linguistic characteristics of telecommunications conversations to identify the basic, underlying dimensions of TTY conversations. (Author/VWL)

Examines the need for power reliability when educational facilities incorporate communications infrastructures. Telecommunications equipment placement and environmental conditions are addressed, as are the integrating of cable trays and conduit systems, developing surge-suppression, and building grounding systems. (GR)

Presents a new concept of literacy ("l'@lphabetisation") that integrates information and communications technologies. Reviews the literacy context in Canada and particularly in Quebec. Describes technological illiteracy as a social challenge and discusses the advantages of integrating technology: increased learning motivation and…

Mobile learning (m-learning) is a natural extension of electronic learning (e-learning) and has the potential to make learning even more widely available and accessible than we are used to in existing e-learning environments. The role that communication and interaction plays in the learning process is a critical success factor. It is within this…