Considers important political and practical issues within the field of distance education raised by the decision for Australia to have its own communications satellite. The experiences of other countries are examined and the importance of communication policy and planning, educational needs-assessment, cost-effectiveness studies, resource…

A system for computer-assisted analysis and assignment of tasks designed for use in administering distance learning programs is also proposed as a model project of research into computer science in education. The aims, design, and initial application of the program are outlined. (MSE)

The use of TeleNet, a two-way telephonic communication system, by the University of Illinois and the Illinois Cooperative Extension Service is described. The TeleNet system, veterinary use of TeleNet, participant evaluations, and the importance of the speaker in making the meeting work effectively are discussed. (MLW)

Evaluates the Educational Satellite Communications Demonstration in Alaska project in educational television within the context of the rapid social change in land ownership, employment, and schooling. (JMF)

Outlines the technological evolution and the use of computers and telecommunications in information transactions and data storage. (CWM)

An introduction to planning interactive health education teleconferences via satellite discusses participant recruitment, satellite transmission coordination, scheduling considerations, format design, and use of site facilitators. Teleconference training of community service providers and community leaders should combine passive delivery of…

Learn, Explore, and Practice (LEAP) is an intelligent tutoring system for training new customer contact employees in customer interaction skills (problem solving and sales) as well as domain knowledge, such as telecommunications products and services. This article describes the design and evaluation (formative and summative) of the first version…

Unlike the rest of the industrialized world, educational institutions were largely untouched by last century's transportation revolution. Teachers have been workhorses pulling students in instructional wagons along well-worn curricula. Since television and the Internet already provide "horseless" classrooms and virtual-learning…

This introduction to a Distance Education special report on videoconferencing discusses the development of videoconferencing; its application in television, education, business, military, and law enforcement; and recent low-cost desk-top videoconferencing and videoconferencing via the Internet. Outlines the report's focus: videoconferencing…

President Clinton discusses issues affecting libraries and explains his administration's plans regarding them. Addresses connecting educational environments to the Internet, the Communications Decency Act, the Federal Communications Commission, the Telecommunications Act of 1996, and rates for "universal service." Describes federal…

If the National Information Infrastructure Act of 1995 becomes law, the public will lose important rights to use electronic works in scholarship, teaching, and research. Libraries will find it difficult to make electronic works available to their users if copyright holders begin to implement licensing systems requiring a "pay-for-view…

Argues that career development is an integral component of job training and retraining programs. Suggests that inservice training for workforce educators is necessary to help them integrate career development competencies into instruction. Argues that telecommunications technology can provide educators with content training and hands-on experience…

The evolution of the Internet and World Wide Web are chronicled briefly, and the challenges and opportunities they offer for college campus planning are discussed. Three issues are discussed: how institutions can use these resources to further their aims of instruction, research, recruitment, public information, and financial strength; assurance…

Though the bookmobile has fallen on hard times, the cybermobile, a technology platform combining personal computing, CD-ROMs, fiber network, and wireless access to the Internet, may be the next step in mobile library services. Discusses standard vehicle, computer hardware, software, wireless access, and alliances with users, vendors, and community…

Summarizes the action plan and final recommendations of the Association of School Business Officials International's (ASBO) Technology Task Force. Also highlights the findings of surveys completed by all ASBO Committee leaders, a sample of general members, and the officers of ASBO's affiliates. A list of task force members is included. (LMI)