Discusses the use of local networks and integrated learning systems in delivering instruction. Presents a summary of projects initiated by the states of Maryland, Florida, Michigan, Minnesota, and North Carolina. Notes that although network software is gaining popularity, most software is still for the individual user. (MVL)

Describes a system which emulates a face-to-face classroom where groups of students can participate online using standard low cost personal computer hardware at the student's location. Provides an overview, rationale, assumptions, design problems, and limitations of the program. Discusses alternative uses and evaluation of the technique. (MVL)

Five articles discuss various aspects of workstations and their applications in higher education. Highlights include microcomputers and workstations; UNIX operating system; campus-wide networks; software; Project SOCRATES and the interdisciplinary aspect of engineering; mechanical system design and simulation; and the Creation Station, a…

Presents a series exchanges between two information and communication studies professors (one American and one Japanese) on the future of multimedia in the two countries and the technological changes that make multimedia growth possible. Issues discussed include the kinds of infrastructure being developed; impacts on education; and the cultural…

Describes the impact of information technology on the physical and functional organization of libraries and briefly discusses technical issues, including wiring and distribution, access to power sources, codes, lighting, and security. The Duke University Library and the Purcellville (VA) public library's renovation and expansion plans are…

Describes activities conducted in a fourth-grade classroom in Cincinnati (Ohio) with low-income students through the AT&T Learning Network. Students' developing interest in subject areas including national news, environmental issues, child support, coping with death, computer literacy, school rules, cultural awareness, and local history is…

Discusses a survey of over 500 public, academic, and special libraries on the use of bibliographic, reference, specialized, and multimedia/interactive CD-ROMs and the Internet. Demand, funding, and equipment needs are considered, and graphs display the distribution of results. (AEF)

This study investigated the effectiveness of introducing e-mail applications into preservice elementary science methods courses at two distant universities. Interviews with instructors and analysis of correspondence between students indicated that, despite problems of incorporating e-mail into the course, interest level in and attitudes toward…

Presents a case study of computer-mediated communication (CMC) in a group discussion course at Marist College (New York). Highlights include advantages of CMC, including more interaction and increased learner control; efficient information access, including access to the Internet; and student attitudes toward CMC, including differences between…

Discusses changes in scholarly and cultural records resulting from the transition from print to electronic information. The role of libraries is considered, including licensing agreements, interlibrary loans, broadcast media, networks, preservation of records, and dangers of centralization; and problems with reliance on electronic information…

Argues that K-12 media educators and librarians should become vocal advocates for Internet connection in their elementary and secondary schools. Topics include K-12 uses of the Internet; Internet resources; FrEdMail (Free Educational Electronic Mail); and a BITNET computer conference. Appendices list computer conferences, networking contracts, and…

Suggests guidelines to consider when choosing electronic reference tools for school libraries, including stand-alone systems versus networked versions; other resources that give access to the same information; annual updates; replacement costs; equipment needs; student and teacher needs; training time needed; and ease of use. (LRW)

Discusses the integration of technology into the curriculum and how to design an interactive technological learning environment based on the concept of scientific sense-making. Highlights include the importance of sense-making in science education and an experiment on curriculum design for a fifth- to sixth-grade unit on seasonal change. (Contains…

The National Film Board of Canada (NFB) is focusing on interactive and multimedia technologies, within the framework of a virtual commons, to promote the study of people, their environments, and their resources. (AEF)

Multi-Media Detectives was a project where fifth graders in three Michigan school districts were linked to a children's bulletin board. The goal was to have students "think global but link local" by using online resources to search for local facts and local celebrities and to bring them to life via technology. (JMV)