Provides an introduction to intellectual-property law relating to composition-classroom practices. Demonstrates that novel communicative technologies have repeatedly prompted expansion of the term of copyright. Suggests that additional extensions of copyright terms are likely unless consumers of intellectual property aggressively assert their…

Presents an explanation for the increase in the number of computer users. Suggests that, in addition to providing electronic-communication services, information technologies may also support thinking and learning processes. Uses a theoretical background to analyze two activities carried out in computational environments: construction of a Web site…

Discusses the concept of "Blur" (described in "Blur: The Speed of Change in the Connected Economy") and what the technology-based, expanded connectivity means for K-12 educators and information specialists. Reviews online and print resources that deal with the rapid development of technology and its effects on society. (AEF)

Distance education according to Moore depends upon "dialog" and "structure." The actual distance between the learner and the teacher is nothing but the degree of dialog and structure in them. This degree is represented as "distance continuum.""Interaction scores" are defined based on this distance continuum and the "mediapackage" is quantified.…

Describes software designers' actions affecting identity performance in computer-mediated communications, particularly within graphical multiuser virtual environments, based on ethnographic research. Discusses how those actions interact with larger social contexts of dominance based on race, class, and gender, as well as designers' understanding…

Telematics in the form of text-based, computer-mediated communications can support teaching and learning and can help the formation and cohesion of communities of learners. This paper examines the development of a "critical community of learners" through this medium, based on experiences with students studying the Open University (OU)…

Considers questions posed by students during e-mail tutorials to elicit information from guest lecturers and the use of that information by students in their essays. Findings indicate: tutees tend to pose questions to elicit information or clarification rather than to elicit opinions of the guest lecturer; and two-thirds of tutees' essays cited…

Continues a discussion of the three chief information stations in a videoconference class. Describes the instructor camera at information station #2, an intermediary station between the three stations, and the student camera at station #1, the information station for interactive student participation. (AEF)

Describes a program wherein two middle school classes representing widely different cultural backgrounds discussed online the subject of race and diversity. Finds that because of the dialogue (1) students were willing to meet each other and benefit from the meetings; and (2) teachers learned the value of examining the effects that their own…

Asserts that with the growth of the Internet, e-mail, synchronous chat, and videoconferencing, students in rural (and urban) areas have virtually endless access to culture and language from their school or home. Describes the utilization of technology as a means of cultural exchange between Southwest Virginia Community College and the University…

This article describes an educational project using videoconferencing computer technology and Internet access with students with deafness in Canadian schools. An outline of an educational lesson and student benefits using videoconferencing to support the instructional objectives is provided. A variety of methods of communicating using computer…

Discussion of new digital information technologies highlights issues of concern for women. Topics include the non-neutrality of digital technology; social and cultural effects of digital technology; gender and technology; barriers to women's performance in mathematics, science, and technology; and computer-mediated communication. (Contains 41…

Provides a model of a "mentoring via telecommunications" course that paired secondary school students with college writers to provide feedback on improving writing processes. Discusses course design and goals, technology and logistics, mentor training, and mentor strategies. Suggests that future mentoring courses should consider the power…

Argues for having first-year composition students "publish" electronic portfolios on the World Wide Web. Provides background on attaining a computer-mediated pedagogy that accounts for its electronic presence and transcends traditional classroom practice. Presents an actual electronic portfolio. Concludes that making an electronic…

Argues that the computer-supported cooperative work (CSCW) community should adopt a stronger orientation to other social science disciplines, particularly psychology. Greater attention to psychological literature provides three benefits: well-validated principles about human behavior in group and organizational contexts relevant to CSCW research;…