Higher education will need network services beyond those currently available from Internet providers if the virtual university is to become reality. A group of network leaders has determined that by the year 2000, higher education will require an Internet that can support desktop and room-based teleconferencing, support high-volume video, and…

Semi-structured interviews were used to assess experiences of three children (ages 8-17) with end stage renal failure, including their perceptions of treatment and side effects, coping strategies, and STARBRIGHT World technology, a program that provides peer support through video conferencing with other children. The benefits of STARBRIGHT are…

Discusses three electronic conferencing tools that apprentice novice learners and encourage them to interact and grapple with alternative perspectives. Technical details of each tool are described, along with 1 instance where all 3 technologies were united, resulting in a highly interactive conversation shared by over 30 people at 4 different…

Highlights developments at the Center for Distance Learning at the State University of New York's Empire State College. Describes two types of instructional applications: (1) the textbook, course guide and tutor as the primary mode of instruction, with a technological tool/activity as an additional assignment; and (2) the textbook and course guide…

Describes distance learning programs offered by the LeCroy Center of Texas' Dallas County Community College District. Discusses telecourses; the Dallas College Network, offering live courses via cable television; the Global Learning Network computer network; teleconferences; STARLINK, a professional development program; contract services; and K-12…

The University of Missouri's Video Instructional Program aired a telecourse on adult basic education teaching methods via satellite nationwide. Analysis of the videotaped lessons and audio teleconference found that participants talked 41 percent of the time and instructors 22 percent. Participants found the audio interaction made the course more…

Surveys four possible types of multimedia computer systems: hypermedia, multimedia database, multimedia message, and virtual reality systems. The potential use of multimedia computer systems as public access systems in libraries is discussed, including fiscal, legal, organizational, standardization, and technological challenges that would have to…

Discusses computer mediated communication (CMC) and describes some possible applications of this technology, especially the use of computer conferencing systems. Electronic bulletin boards, online journals, and social communication are discussed, and experiences with using e-mail as a distance education medium between the United States, Canada,…

This discussion of definitions of distance education responds to previous articles attempting to define the field. Topics discussed include distance education versus conventional education; group-based distance education; differences between open learning and distance education; and criteria to define distance education. (13 references) (LRW)

A study investigated the effect of computer-mediated communication, or computer conferencing, on traditional gender-based differences in discussion participation, including patterns in turn-taking, perceptions of the kinds of contributions made by men and women, and actual contributions made. Continued potential for gender imbalance is found. (MSE)

Examines results of a 1992 group learning study done by Queen's University of Belfast (Northern Ireland). Compares the quality of learning and depth of critical thinking in seminars conducted face-to-face and via a computer conferencing system. Findings indicate that computer conference discussions had significantly deeper critical thinking than…

Videoconferencing helps people conduct business more efficiently. It allows people from separate sites to meet electronically, allowing them to talk among themselves as they watch each other on video displays. Describes some systems being used by colleges and businesses, early results, user comments, implications, and potential of the technology.…

Describes the development of the Multidimensional Audioconferencing Classification System (MACS), an instrument for the tabulation, analysis, and interpretation of audioconferencing instructional interactions. MACS draws on three theoretical and empirical streams: (1) systematic small group interaction analysis; (2) systematic classroom…

This article traces developments in telephone and telecommunications technology from Alexander Graham Bell to the present, explaining technical and practical aspects of teletypewriters, fax machines, online information services, electronic mail, video telephones, relay systems, teleconferencing, video telephones, and speech recognition.…

Examines the interworking between Internet- and ISDN-based conferences, and shows how Internet and ISDN multimedia conferencing environments can be connected. Describes the components of the Conference Management and Multiplexing Center, which act as a gateway between the two environments, and ISDN multimedia conferencing equipment. (Author/AEF)