Analyzes the experiences and experiments of the Open University (OU), United Kingdom, in the use of computer conferencing over 10 years. Provides a framework for considering educational uses of the medium and describes several innovative applications. Highlights the main issues involved in implementing this technology. (Author)

Describes the potential of a FirstClass server in audioconferencing courses at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks using telecommunications, e-mail, student-to-student interaction, submission of assignments, e-mail, timely instructor feedback, and the transfer of files and multimedia documents. Student surveys indicated some positive aspects of…

Discusses a goal-oriented project, focused on open learning environments using computer networks, called Distance Learning in Multimedia Networks that was part of the Finnish Multimedia Program. Describes the combined efforts of Finnish telecommunications companies, content providers, publishing houses, hardware companies, and educational…

Describes a study that compared Israeli university students' satisfaction with three different distance learning methods: one an interactive video system, one an Internet-based system, and one that allowed synchronous communication between teacher and students. Discusses information and communication technology (ICT) and examines student…

Highlights the important features of the University of Texas (UT) TeleCampus Master Plan, designed to support distance delivery of academic programs from all 15 UT component institutions. Discusses the student-centered learning approach; faculty issues; and the use of videoconferencing and the World Wide Web. (AEF)

This study of 51 Australian elementary school students found that information seeking, driven by a contextual and practical need, resulted in greater retention. Research in the use of electronic information sources has shown that while students can retrieve information, they often fail to retain the information. Attributes the gain to an increased…

Presents a study using an electronic bulletin board as the software platform for students in a large second-year college biology course to improve communications among students and between students and the instructor. Reports that the bulletin board was successful in fostering interaction between students as well as improving student-instructor…

Examines the history of information systems in the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), proposed development strategies for the area, the OECS INFONET project, and resulting recommendations for developing and sustaining regional information networks. An appendix summarizes 1991 Gross National Product and population data for the…

Discusses the effects the Telecommunications Act of 1996 will have on telephone services, telephone and cable mergers and buyouts, cable television rates, alarm monitoring services, satellite services, broadcasting and media ownership, electronic publishing, the television industry, and the Internet. Describes the impacts the act may have on…

Discusses the use of computing, communications, and traditional educational technology and the scientific process and describes the development of a teaching and learning module in biology at the State University of New York College at Plattsburgh that uses the Internet. Topics include interactive learning, future possibilities, and the use of…

Describes major developments in book approval plans used by academic libraries for acquisition and for information dissemination and document distribution services based on approval-like concepts. Topics addressed include publishers; marketing; the impact of library automation; value-added services; the economic climate; the influence of…

Examines the question of copyright violation of audiovisual materials when used in a Master's of Business Administration (MBA) degree offered via satellite transmission through Colorado State University. Topics discussed include fair use; definitions of literary works, performance, and transmission; and the need to revise the 1976 Copyright Act to…

Discusses telecommunications in Mississippi and efforts to ensure equal access. Highlights include the development of the telecommunications infrastructure and the various levels of involvement of the Mississippi Library Association, institutions of higher learning and community colleges, the Department of Education, and public libraries. (LRW)

The current decade has witnessed an unprecedented relationship, in character and impact, between technological innovation and social and economic organization. A new information society has been born, in which services offered by technologies support human activities. This represents both revolution and occupational opportunity. The ability to…

Students and teachers in the Virtual Classroom Program at an Ottawa, Ontario, high school connect in real time with peers and experts from around the world. Students collaboratively select interdisciplinary topics, conduct research using online databases and experts, and create oral and multimedia presentations. (MLH)