Appraises the relationship between technology and human agency with specific attention to communication and information technologies. Presents a general, dialectical model of technology, in which technologies and attitudes toward technologies are viewed as socially constructed. Applies the model in an analysis of some of the classic and…

Outlines information systems (IS) service quality improvement to cope with a customer-driven IS environment due to the growth of end-user computing, information technology decentralization, and alternative sources of supply. It adapts a conceptual "gap" model from the marketing field as a framework for IS service quality management. (67…

The Weyerhaeuser Information Technology Internship Program centers on pairing co-op students with mentors who help them feel valued and welcome, understand corporate culture and expectations, and receive job coaching. Initially informal, the program now provides guidelines and training for mentors and orientation for students. (SK)

A shortage of U.S. workers for the information-technology field has prompted many companies to ship their work overseas rather than depend on foreign workers on site. (JOW)

Discussion of the publishing industry and its use of information and communication technologies focuses on the way in which electronic-commerce technologies are changing and could change the publishing processes, and develops a business complementarity model of electronic publishing to maximize profitability and improve the competitive position.…

Summarizes the successful reengineering of business processes to take full advantage of new functionality in a vendor system upgrade at Western Iowa Tech Community College. Suggests that to truly benefit from implementing new systems or major system upgrades, an institution must streamline processes, eliminate duplication of effort, and examine…

Defines information technology (IT) as the study, design, development, implementation, support, or management of computer-based information systems. Points out that there is a shortage of qualified workers in IT and describes the eight major job groups listing sample job titles and descriptions. (JOW)

Discussion of XML (extensible markup language) and the traditional DTD (document type definition) format focuses on efforts of the World Wide Web Consortium's XML schema working group to develop a schema language to replace DTD that will be capable of defining the set of constraints of any possible data resource. (Contains 14 references.) (LRW)

Ethical and moral issues in the use of information and communication technologies include privacy, equal access, self-determination, and the notion of truth. The Information Society must use new technologies to promote human values and not allow the instrumentalization of human beings. (SK)

Information and communications technologies used in interactive learning environments and networked communities have led to new constructivist roles for the learner: explorer, constructor, researcher, collaborator, judge, reflective practitioner, and problem solver. (SK)

Considers the role that new information and communication technologies may play. Calls for a reexamination of foundational ideas in education. Discusses technology and John Dewey's conception of learning. Lists some centers based in the United States concerned with technologies for learning resources. (RS)

Examines the relationship of information technology to communities of color. Argues that attempts to "stake a claim in cyberspace" happen on two levels: the "virtual" and the "real." Explores questions of how community is imagined by people of color using icons and language, and how images and language mark insiders and outsiders. Notes…

Identifies the number and characteristics of older adults using computers and barriers to their computer learning. Describes model programs such as SeniorNet and outlines future trends and issues in computer use. (SK)

Presents highlights from a conference call involving six experts on spending for higher education information technology (IT). Participants discussed solid strategies for smart purchasing, sensible financing, and discipline that allow an institution to focus on its mission in a climate of fads and quick-fix technological temptations. (EV)

Discusses outsourcing as a university's solution to manage their information needs and other technology tasks. Selective outsourcing strategies versus complete package outsourcing are examined. (GR)