A Virtual Research and Extension Communication Network (VRECN) is a set of networked electronic tools facilitating improvement in communication processes and information sharing among stakeholders involved in agricultural development. In developing countries, research and extension personnel within a ministry of agriculture, in consultation and…

Amid unprecedented social, demographic, and economic changes, leaders must enhance performance and deliver desired results. The growing importance of managing the explosion in information requires attention to defining organizational missions and visions. The 37 chapters in this work are divided into 7 parts. Part 1, "On Leaders and…

This practical guide for educators discusses the concept of electronic collaboration and how educators can begin to utilize this emerging tool. The guide reports on what electronic collaboration is--a process that connects individuals electronically via the Internet to work together on an intellectual, academic, or practical endeavor--and explains…

Survey of 141 rural special education teachers from Washington State indicated that teachers were unfamiliar with telecomputer networks and their potential use in the classroom, rarely used computer technology at home or at school, and perceived lack of knowledge as the biggest obstacle to using telecomputer networks and resources in the…

Examines challenges in providing a cost-effective means of information access for students at geographically dispersed DeVry Institute campuses. Describes several changes in library strategy and ongoing efforts to improve access to students in DeVry's dynamic and technically focused programs. (YKH)

Briefly reviews recent innovations in economics instruction including simulations and materials from the Internet. Provides an annotated bibliography of relevant citations from the ERIC database. Noted materials include journal articles, research reports, articles on how to find information, and discussions about the Internet. (MJP)

The origins and current use of H-Net, an online humanities network on the World Wide Web, are examined. H-Net currently sponsors 73 electronic discussion lists that reach subscribers in 68 countries. Discussion groups have not met expectations for scholarly exchange, possibly because of plagiarism and copyright concerns. New ventures include book…

Discussed are several types of telecommunications options available to educators. Included are satellite teleconferences, telephone teleconferences, video telecommunications, computer-based educational telecommunications, and FAX. A basic protocol used with students for teleconferences is presented. (CW)

Describes and explains three varieties of information technology (IT): academic IT, vocational IT, and cross-curricular IT. Discusses teacher education and the use of IT. Provides recent trends in IT development in education. (MVL)

Described are successful science activities which have been conducted on an international telecommunications network which links schools in the United States, Mexico, Japan, and Israel. Examined are several activities currently being developed. Reports an innovative way to involve a wide range of students in the scientific process. (MVL)

Explains the development of an electronic information network in Maryland called Seymour that offers bibliographic records; full-text databases; community information databases; the ability to request information and materials; local, state, and federal information; and access to the Internet. Policy issues are addressed, including user fees and…

Discusses ways teachers can get free Internet access. Highlights include Internet uses in education; online access from home or in the school library; university accounts; registration procedures; and what opportunities and limitations to expect online. A sidebar lists state-supported Internet sites. (AEF)

Two articles consider different aspects of the issue of protecting intellectual property rights. The first discusses the effects of a recent court ruling on information centers in the for-profit sector, focusing on fair use under the Copyright Act of 1976; and the second examines moral and economic issues in electronic information dissemination.…

Discusses the emerging three-tiered structure (i.e., the "Baby Bells," network nodes, and information marketers) that will assume responsibility for implementing a new national information network and getting networked information to the public. The role of libraries related to networked information is also considered. (EA)

This article describes the efforts of the University of South Florida's Department of Special Education to change its approach to educating special education teachers, by making a total commitment to align its work with public schools in developing a network of Professional Development Schools to reflect a collaborative model of training and…