Describes a study conducted at the University of Ulster (Northern Ireland) that examined reasons for defecting from Internet access. Topics include availability through institutional access; subject differences; e-mail and critical mass; information rich versus information poor; and suggestions for further research. (LRW)

Describes how an introductory course in database management is enriched using the Internet and how students encounter problems with sociotechnical systems. Concludes with observations concerning conditions that must be in place for Internet-augmented systems. (DDR)

Describes a group pioneering the process of "professional" publication of students' writing called Chapbooks.com. Discusses the author's experience with Chapbooks.com and three other "testimonies" from different schools. Concludes with an appendix of frequently asked questions about the website. (SC)

PORTICAL (Portal for Technology Information Center for Administrative Leadership) is an online service that will be available to California school administrators by mid-October 2000. A 21-member administrative cadre chose data-driven decision-making as the first of six focus areas. Training will be provided in all regions. (MLH)

Discussion of cheating by business education students first examines the current state of integration of the Internet into marketing education. Then it explores areas of concern that face education in relation to the use of the Internet, including student research and reference techniques, plagiarism, and accessibility of custom and off-the-shelf…

Discusses the controversy over the arrangement between UMI, a company that stores, reproduces, and sells master's theses and doctoral dissertations, and the commercially based online retailer, Contentville.com. Both American and Canadian scholars have been surprised to find their work being offered, without their permission, for sale online by…

Discussion of advances in Internet infrastructure and technology that provide opportunities for its educational use in developing countries focuses on a model for virtual classrooms in Caribbean territories. Describes the telecommunication infrastructures in Jamaica and Barbados and presents models for virtual classrooms for primary and secondary…

Using her own Web site as an example, the author discusses issues and tasks associated with creating and maintaining a professional Web site, within the context of a strategic planning approach. The stages of the process are outlined, including identification of user needs; selection and evaluation of information; organization of information;…

Introduces NASA Quest as part of NASA's Learning Technologies Project, which connects students to the people of NASA through the various pages at the website where students can glimpse the various types of work performed at different NASA facilities and talk to NASA workers about the type of work they do. (ASK)

Defines Internet Mediated Distance Learning (IMDL), describing it as a sustaining educational force; considering ways in which it can act as a disruptive technology (especially to today's markets and market shares); examining how aspects of IMDL may change campus programs and governance and affect brand value; and noting the role of for-profits in…

Discussion of library consortia focuses on the collaborative efforts in the Federated States of Micronesia that will enhance library services through staff training and educating while utilizing innovative technology. Highlights include background and socioeconomic overview; a project that addresses automation and Internet connectivity issues; and…

Describes a study designed to ascertain the extent to which the public library model of universal service generated Internet use among information gatekeepers in an African American inner city community. Analyzes use or non-use of the library, library computers, and Internet resources using an innovation adoption model. (Contains 37 references.)…

Investigates Web site design factors and their impact from a theoretical perspective. Presents a two-factor model that can guide Web site design and evaluation. According to the model, there are two types of design factors: hygiene and motivator. Results showed that the two-factor model provides a means for Web-user interface studies. Provides…

Discusses teaching lab science as a telecourse, particularly with the screening process used to identify and counsel students who are best suited to this learning modality. Concludes that some students are not suited to distance learning because they are not mature enough to schedule their own study time so they do not like to work independently.…

University of Washington's online educational certificate programs were developed with support of organizational and business partners. The online degree program in computing and software systems involved two campuses, community colleges, the governor's office, a software alliance, and private industry councils. Partnering allows rapid development…