This overview of changes in the field of telecommunications development produced by satellite communications over the last 15 years focuses on applications of satellite systems for educational and health purposes in developing countries. Satellite communications development from 1974 to 1986 is identified as the first stage of telecommunications…

This paper describes the instructor selection process for a television course in health education for undergraduate students. Since presenter selection may be critical for instructional effectiveness, the selection process was designed to utilize objective data to predict the presenter's impact on the intended audience. Audience appeal or ability…

"Quest into Matter," produced by Ontario (Canada) Instructional Television, aimed to investigate the "heart of matter" at the college freshman level of chemistry. Specifically, its purpose was to demonstrate the relevance of "shape" in relation to the properties of matter from the molecular level to the galactic. Some…

Describes efforts underway at Pennsylvania State University to link branch campuses using compressed videoconferencing. Discusses the plans for using this technology for a variety of administrative and instructional purposes. Outlines the costs associated with developing such a system. (TW)

Describes the development of a network of 10 sites in Minnesota involving two-way interactive television systems. Discusses the instructional uses of the system, including its potential for use in community education. Outlines the efforts underway at three educational cooperatives which are using the system for instructional and administrative…

Presents results of a four-year longitudinal study of a group of two-year college students who selected at least one telecourse during their first term. Examines student characteristics, retention, academic progress, graduation rates, and continued enrollment in telecourses to determine the effectiveness and impact of the delivery system. (DMM)

A one-year pilot program at five videoconferencing learning centers addressed the use of videoconferencing as an effective instructional delivery model in distance education for post secondary teacher education. The need to offer teachers increased continuing educational opportunities has placed a significant demand on university training programs…

This paper discusses techniques and strategies to improve the effectiveness of distance education delivered via interactive video telecommunication. Advantages and disadvantages of three types of interactive video--telephone linkage, end-to-end fiber optic digital transmission, and satellite broadcasts--are briefly discussed. Prebroadcast…

The purpose of this study is to determine the number of counselor education programs that utilize distance learning, to identify the distance learning software delivery products used, and to identify features of software used. The researchers also attempt to identify faculty perceptions related to and experience with the importance of distance…

Overcoming the challenges of educational discontinuity that arise from the migratory lifestyle is the central focus of the Migrant Education Program. This chapter describes Project SMART (Summer Migrants Access Resources through Technology), a national distance learning program for migrant students that addresses such challenges by coordinating…

Describes development of the Central Broadcasting Television University of China and, in particular, a course to teach English as a second language. Technical problems of producing television programs and how some of the pedagogical, idealogical, and cultural issues concerning this English course are gradually being resolved are discussed. (EAO)

Presents the rationale for a partnership between colleges/universities and the Public Broadcast System (PBS) for broadcasting formal and informal college courses over PBS stations. Suggestions for implementing an adult learning program service on a national level are given. (Author/JN)

Describes Coastline Community College, California, a noncampus, community-based, comprehensive college, in terms of its: (1) use of existing community facilities; (2) administrative organization; (3) open admissions policies; (4) services to the elderly; (5) comprehensive curriculum; (6) telecourses and independent study courses; (7) primarily…

Discusses a study completed about the satisfaction of students with interactive teleclasses and online courses. Data indicates that most students are satisfied with long distance learning and would recommend it to others. Speculates that minority students cannot take advantage of these courses due to a lack of access. (Contains 3 references.) (MZ)

Describes two introductory courses at the University of Saskatchewan that were delivered via satellite television to rural communities. The teaching/learning model used is explained, and results of an evaluation of the courses are reported, including positive attitudes expressed by both the students and the lecturers. (10 references) (LRW)