Discusses the uses of microcomputers in libraries. Highlights include selecting hardware and software; providing microcomputers for public use; using microcomputers to access larger systems; the use of general purpose software, including desktop publishing; computer networks; library specific software; and the future of microcomputers in…

Discusses the issues influencing the design, implementation, and promotion of the Towers Perrin in-house text retrieval system. The discussion of factors influencing system design includes the organizational culture, the existing computer and communications network, and the availability of text retrieval software. Suggestions for in-house systems…

Describes SeniorNet (an on-line communications network for older adults) and its evolution from a small on-line network to an expanding electronic community. Discusses why older adults connect with SeniorNet, reports network features they use while on-line, and outlines benefits and challenges of bringing telecommunications to older adults. (SR)

Describes the development of the Electronic Networks for Interaction (ENFI) (originally, English Natural Form Instruction) computer method for teaching written English to deaf students, and discusses the programs' effectiveness in working with deaf students, implications for improving English usage, and the ENFI movement. (CB) (Adjunct ERIC…

The Academic Computing Center at Winthrop College has gone beyond simple connectivity in linking its three local area networks to each other and the campus minicomputer. The environmental impact of the installation of bridges and gateways on systems, personnel, and end users is described. (MLW)

Discusses ways to provide good computer laboratory facilities for elementary and secondary schools. Topics discussed include establishing the computer lab and selecting hardware; types of software; physical layout of the room; printers; networking possibilities; considerations relating to the physical environment; and scheduling methods. (LRW)

Discusses the National Research and Education Network (NREN) and the National Science Foundation Network (NSFNET), and the role that interagency cooperation and government-industry cooperation have played in their formation. The role of the Federal Coordinating Council for Science, Engineering, and Technology (FCCSET) and future plans are also…

Describes the growth of academic computing and the resulting need to redefine curriculum, university structures, and the relationship of the university to other institutions and society at large. Topics covered include courseware; the role of academic libraries; the incorporation of online catalogs into national academic networks; and university…

Among the protective measures against computer viruses that universities should consider are the following: (1) establishment of policies regarding student and faculty conduct; (2) distribution of information; (3) limitations on access to college computers; (4) establishment of operational safeguards; and (5) creation of an emergency action plan.…

As new information technology options are made available, office automation systems are being introduced and along with campus networks, and management information service requirements are evolving. Eight common strategies found in 10 American institutions are reported. (Author/MLW)

Many daily and some weekly newspapers have developed online services that colleges and universities may use to their advantage for disseminating campus news. To use these public relations opportunities, campus information personnel must become comfortable with the technology, investigate commercial online vendors, forge relationships with the…

The benefits to camps of connecting to the Internet include reaching a new market, providing interactive opportunities for campers, providing up-to-date information for parents, having an up-to-date brochure available, easily taking care of billing and other camp business, recruiting staff members, and participating in discussions with other camp…

Compares the processes and costs of publishing a book in printed versus electronic format. Discussion includes distribution by disk versus network distribution; flow charts for the two production processes; and implications for publishers resulting from cost savings for electronic publishing.(LRW)

Strategies used by five schools, colleges, and university libraries to thank major donors personally and sincerely are described, including a photo album of the gift's results, active donor participation in planning the facility donated, presenting a crystal etching of the building funded, posting of recognition on the World Wide Web, and a…

Norwegian participation in the JITOL (Just in Time Open Learning) professional training project provided experience with electronic networks and distribution of learning material. A national project, NITOL (Norwaynet with Information Technology for Open Learning), was established that applies JITOL to higher education. Four Norwegian universities…