The pervasive use of communication technology in schools and universities requires increased security to safeguard information confidentiality, integrity, availability, utility, and authenticity. This article, the first of two, examines procedures for implementing security policy, techniques for minimizing vulnerability, and techniques for…

NASA research into plant-based regenerative systems for sustaining colonies in space provides the core content for the Classroom of the Future (COTF), a NASA sponsored project that transfers research on space exploration to high school biology classrooms. This article describes and evaluates BioBlast (Better Learning through Adventure, Simulations…

Defines telematics and argues that India should exploit telematics resources for training. Describes training through telematics and virtual means, as well as a redefinition of the notion of training. Discusses the cost factor and its influence on policy at different levels. (AEF)

Examines how multimedia communication networks can be viewed both as the technological enabler of the global information society and as creating barriers between cultural groups. Discusses the concept of the global information society from different perspectives; outlines the use of multimedia communication networks; and links the two concepts to…

Describes the use of the Florida Information Resource Network (FIRN) in Florida public schools. Highlights include electronic mail exchanges; online conferences; remote research; classroom resources; training initiatives for teachers to learn about telecommunications; access to other systems and databases; and inservice, hands-on teacher training.…

When used in managing college student records, electronic data interchange allows electronic student records to be fed directly into a receiving institution's database instead of being sent by mail. Although the process offers many clear advantages, one important question that must be addressed is how students' privacy will be protected under a…

The debate over the future of the student loan program has often been so rancorous that it obscures rather than illuminates the issues. The college student loan program of the future will be characterized by the acute need for excellent customer service, dependence on advanced communications technology, and intense competition among service…

Describes automation and networking activities among Delaware libraries, including integrated library systems for public libraries, the Delaware Technical and Community College telecommunications network, Delaware Public Library Internet access planning, digital resources, a computer/technology training center, and the Delaware Center for…

Describes information technology programs in Maryland, including the Sailor Project, that created a statewide telecommunications network providing Internet access without charge from libraries, homes, offices, schools, and shopping malls; University of Maryland initiatives; distance learning in higher education; and a project that allows worldwide…

Discusses the implementation of information technologies and advanced telecommunications in Wisconsin. Highlights include an Internet dial access program; a statewide union catalog, WISCAT; the World Wide Web home page for the Department of Public Instruction; the Educational Technology Board; and Goals 2000 Technology Planning. (LRW)

Outlines features of constructivism and collaborative learning as they underpin a proposed model of ICT (Information and Communications Technology) support for learning. Evaluates the model in three projects involving ICT in primary, secondary, and higher education learning environments in the United Kingdom and considers the effectiveness of…

Presents a plan for learning in the future, based on a new approach for universally available learning, utilizing existing and developing communication technologies. The L-CS describes the interrelationships between the Learner, a Consultation Agency, a Resource Center and Communication Access Facilities, all of which are linked together on a…

Reviews two books that give an overview of the broad spectrum of new educational technology advocates, what they have accomplished using various distance media in developing countries, and what they are proposing for the future. Weaves the reviewer's personal experiences with these projects into the review. Discusses implications for comparative…

Reports on the nature of interaction during one-way video and two-way audio teleconference sessions at the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) based on recording of actual interaction and participants' reactions. Suggests a design for an ideal teleconference session, based on findings of the study. Includes seven tables. (AEF)

Discusses the need for cooperative collection development among libraries on a worldwide scale. Considers the relationship between knowledge and power; information needs and telecommunications technologies; economic and political issues; digital libraries; publishing industry; and laws of intellectual property. (LRW)