Rapid proliferation of different types of interaction devices that use more natural channels (voice, touch, gesture) for interfacing with the digital medium illustrates the trend towards the creation of more "humane" interaction mechanisms. However, the current historical paradox is that modern technological advances are dramatically…

This paper provides background on building the "Connecticut Digital Gazetteer." The paper begins by describing primary research initiatives, including a 1998 workshop convened by the National Academy of Science's Mapping Science Committee to build a national vision of a geolibrary and a 1999 workshop at the Smithsonian Institution to…

This paper discusses the authenticity of digital spatial data. The first section describes three formats for digital spatial data: vector, raster, and thematic. The second section addresses the integrity of spatial data, including six possible formats for the same information: (1) aerial photographic prints, time stamped, primary, remotely sensed…

This paper considers new technologies and their role in the production of knowledge. The main objective is to show that there is not a single angle from which to examine the issue. There must also be, as a starting point, the assumption that to deal with the new configuration of the world and the relations established by and under its mainstreams…

The current cohort of older people is part of the aging trend that is occurring during the shift to an information economy. Issues affecting them include redefinition of disability, inclusiveness vs. exclusiveness of technology, and tension between the profit motive and social goals. (JOW)

Describes California State University Long Beach's implementation of new maintenance management software, which integrated maintenance, inventory control, and key control and allows technicians to enter and receive information through handheld wireless devices for more accurate time accounting. The school estimates a 10 percent increase in…

Understanding the value of information technology (IT) on campus is important, as technology projects now approach buildings as the largest investments a campus can make. Four major challenges, identified at a recent conference, inhibit the discussion of IT value. (SLD)

Describes how California's Peralta Community Colleges District decided to hire an outside company to manage its computer networks, but that problems cause it to now want a technology boss on its own staff. (EV)

Information technology is not enough without knowledge management. People who oversee and support knowledge management are essential. The move to knowledge management systems may eclipse training and development unless trainers help people learn about learning and about sharing their knowledge. (JOW)

Communications technologies do more than solve practical problems such as overcoming learner distance. They can add new dimensions to courses. Although effective adult learning should not be technology driven, adult educators can take a proactive role in ensuring the appropriate use of technologies. (SK)

Discusses the goals of standards-based reform in education and ways in which developments in information technology have facilitated these goals. Developed a "standards-based instruction and assessment" model and discusses the organizational and technical challenges that must be overcome to realize the goals of standards-based…

Explores the outcome of a publicly-funded research project titled "Redesign of the British Sign Language (BSL) Notation System with a New Font for Use in ICT." The aim of the project was to redesign the British Sign Language variant of Stokoe notation for practical use in information technology systems and software, such as lexical…

Offers benchmarks to help campuses evaluate their efforts in supplying information technology (IT) services. The first three help understand the IT budget, the next three provide insight into staffing levels and emphases, and the seventh relates to the pervasiveness of institutional infrastructure. (EV)

Discusses radio frequency (R.F.) wireless technology, including industry standards, range (coverage) and throughput (data rate), wireless compared to wired networks, and considerations before embarking on a large-scale wireless project. (EV)

Defines middleware, often called the "glue" that makes the elements of the cyberinfrastructure work together. Discusses how the National Science Foundation (NSF) Middleware Initiative (NMI) is consolidating expertise, software, and technology to address the critical and ubiquitous middleware issues facing research and education today.…