Offers guidance on the development and introduction of an academic extranet (an information network that links computers through the World Wide Web rather than through a local area network) for a professional school, outlining the potential options and applications, and a plan for implementation. For descriptive purposes, the model school is a…

Examines eighth-grade students' perceptions about their experiences with technology, especially the World Wide Web. Students' personal attributes of self-confidence, resilience, and openness to learning about the new technologies, and their skills in reading the Web and managing information, may offer new questions for teachers and information…

Presents results of a recent survey of over 100 public and academic libraries about pricing options from online companies. Most options fall into three categories: pay-as-you-go, fixed-rate, and user-based. Results are discussed separately for public and academic libraries and for consortial discounts. Trends in pricing options preferred by…

Examines decisions schools are faced with in terms of electronic reference materials selection. Discusses CD-ROM versus online technology; choosing the "suite" of software; blending equipment creatively; and costs. A chart highlighting prices, scope/coverage, and strengths for various vendors' databases is included. (AEF)

The Appalachian Rural Systemic Initiative aims to improve math and science instruction in 48 schools in 6 Appalachian states. The three program components are "teacher partners" who act as resources to colleagues; access to educational resources, through a collaboration with five area universities and acquisition of telecommunications…

Describes distance learning at Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI). The system uses a hybrid model involving face-to-face, mediated, synchronous, and asynchronous communication at on- and off-campus sites to create flexible and adaptable patterns. Asserts that the hybrid model offers advantages over a single mode, since…

Examines the status, issues, and trends of multimedia instructional support. Presents examples associated with the development of CD-ROMs and interactive Web sites to illustrate important considerations for such development. Some issues considered include: degree of interactivity, performance, accessibility, dependability, and development dynamic.…

Presents findings from a three-year evaluative study, plus a follow-up study four years later, into the implementation of a student-owned portable computer program in a secondary school in Perth, Western Australia. Discusses computer use, student computer attitudes, teacher attitudes, the role of teachers in curriculum integration, and…

Assessments were made of fourth grade students' attitudes toward computers, their computer vocabulary, and their estimates of classroom access at the end of the academic year 2000. Findings indicate that teachers need sustained hands-on guidance in learning to design and schedule classroom computer activities that both relate to the curriculum and…

Considers the effects of an electronic environment on students and the role of the school library media specialist in student achievement. Topics include how students learn differently as a result of computer access; interactivity in mass media; political aspects of educational technology; and whether technological changes are good or bad. (LRW)

Describes the objectives and format of a course developed at the University of British Columbia (Canada) that was designed to introduce information technology to preservice science teachers. Sample student microcomputer-based laboratory projects are described that include computer simulations, multimedia presentations, and videodiscs; and…

Although educational uses of computers and video seem to be increasing, no one knows exactly what kind of technology is used; what is available to teachers; or what is broken, worn out, or in unopened boxes. The technology revolution is proceeding slowly in schools, due to insufficient time, money, and taxpayer commitment. (MLH)

This article reports on a survey of 36 state departments of education concerning state provisions to ensure recruitment, enrollment, and placement of students with disabilities in tech-prep educational programs as required by the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Applied Technology Education Act of 1990. Results suggest the need for vigilance to…

Describes the use of a supercomputer in chemistry and physics instruction. The computer is used by high school students to create high quality, nearly 3-D graphic images of scientific phenomena. (PR)

Discussion of the role of advancing technology in legal education looks at the administrative and organizational questions it poses, solutions developed at the Duke University (North Carolina) law school, and new possible roles for library directors in managing and planning the growing integration of information technology into all aspects of…