Introductory exploration of two usenet newsgroups focused on political discussions. The goal is to answer questions regarding issues such as who is participating in these online discussions and whether the online groups resemble more traditional discussion networks. (Author)

Describes the introduction of the World Wide Web into an advanced course in social psychology using activities that entail collaboration and knowledge sharing, direct experience with information in various formats, and manipulation of information into new formats. Discusses the strengths and weaknesses of using the Web in this context. (DSK)

Discussion of the influence of the World Wide Web on student financial aid considers: waves of technology change, direct access to the consumer offered by the Web, business uses of the Web, student demand for on-line services, paradigm shifts in financial aid, and the constancy of change. Concludes that Web technology will significantly alter the…

Explores the possibility of considering the creation and maintenance of reference librarians' personal Web sites as part of their professional duties. Reviews a sample of personal Web sites and the results of an e-mail survey targeting such sites and their creators. Examines three home pages to provide more detailed information about site…

Introduces an inquiry-based unit in which students investigate characteristic environmental changes during outdoor activities. Integrates technology with data analysis, virtual field trips, and multimedia projects. Focuses on Content Standard A of the National Science Education Standards (NSES). (YDS)

The digital age beckons land-grant universities to serve K-12 education, as it did past industries, by helping develop and mold the dynamic workforce needed to keep pace with an increasingly technological world. Examines: the focus on K-12 education; creating digital intermediaries to support a new land-grant imperative; and recreating the…

Considers the future of copyright in an electronic environment due to the ease with which materials can be copied. Discusses relevant legal cases; reproductive rights organizations; the role of contracts; databases; European Union initiatives; and conflict of laws. Concludes that increased owner-user cooperation is needed if copyright is to…

Presents issues and questions involved in online privacy from the information professional's perspective. Topics include consumer concerns; query confidentiality; securing computers from intrusion; electronic mail; search engines; patents and intellectual property searches; government's role; Internet service providers; database mining; user…

Presents the instructional design aspects of a multimedia course delivered online via the Internet in a distance learning program at the Universiti Sains Malaysia. Reports results of a preliminary study that showed student perceptions toward online distance education focused on accessibility and presentation rather than pedagogical techniques and…

Describes a needs assessment at Arizona State University that investigated the optimal instructional content for a foundations course in educational technology; the optimal delivery method; and student attitudes about the use of the Internet for the course. Reports the results of surveys from students, graduates, and faculty. (LRW)

Indicates the difficulties in performing a high quality lab, especially in integrated courses, because of limited supplies and expenses. Introduces a program in which a high school collaborates with the community. Makes recommendations for the implementation of this type of program to other high schools. (YDS)

Suggests guidelines for departments and institutions regarding information technology; guidelines dealing with the hiring, reappointment, tenure, and promotion processes designed to help departments and faculty members implement effective evaluation procedures; and guidelines that recommend the minimal reference information that should be provided…

Discussion of wireless technology focuses on whether there is enough value in a wireless infrastructure for schools to justify the cost. Considers issues campuses must face, including access to the Internet, telecommunications, and networking; explains technical details; and describes wireless initiatives at Wake Forest University. (LRW)

Describes the development of learning communities within the context of asynchronous distance education, based on a study of 12 graduate students in a course that used Internet-based conferencing software. Preliminary results of empirical data, interviews, and student journals indicate a relationship between learning achievement and strength of…

Outlines the theory behind the formation of language conventions, then reveals conventions evolving in the community of people writing hypertext on the Web. Demonstrates how these conventions can be used to augment and shift the meaning of already published hypertexts. Describes the system called InCommonSense, which reuses particular hypertext…