Reviews computer networks and online services designed especially for teachers, as well as networks broadly targeted for business, home, and education. Presents a resources directory of networks to assist persons with disabilities. (SR)

Describes in detail the functions and applications of a computer software program called "ClassWriter" that sets up networked electronic space in which computer conversations can take place. Outlines ways of using the program in the writing classroom. (HB)

Computer bulletin board systems, commercial services, technical services, and academic/professional networks are described. Directions on how to get started using these types of networks and examples of ways they can be used are provided. (KR)

Discusses issues involved in the creation of the National Research and Education Network (NREN). Telecommunications technology is described; support from industry and libraries is discussed; and problems with NREN are raised, including equal access to computerized information, privacy issues, and protection of First Amendment rights. (LRW)

This issue contains nine articles that provide an overview of trends and research in parallel information retrieval. Topics discussed include network design for text searching; the Connection Machine System; PThomas, an adaptive information retrieval system on the Connection Machine; algorithms for document clustering; and system architecture for…

The most vulnerable Y2K areas for schools are networked computers, free-standing personal computers, software, and embedded chips in utilities such as telephones and fire alarms. Expensive, time-consuming procedures and software have been developed for testing and bringing most computers into compliance. Districts need a triage prioritization…

Technology is allowing people with differing venues and schedules to meet and form powerful teams. To succeed, virtual teams must hold some synchronous, real-time meetings, follow a five-step continuous-improvement model, provide coaching and support, encourage face-to-face contact, and expect trial and experimentation. (MLH)

Describes the evolution of job searching on the Internet from the early job boards to offerings on eBay. Suggests that both job-seekers and employers are becoming dissatisfied with job boards because of the difficulty of sifting through the large number of candidates and jobs to find the right match. (JOW)

Offers advice for choosing an Internet provider: consider the amount of time, effort, and expertise one has, coupled with the complexity of the Web page, which impact price and choice of provider; and question providers about server speed, ports, architecture, traffic levels, fee structures, and registration of domain names. Lists 33 Web presence…

Describes technological advances at North Dakota State University under the direction of Bonnie M. Neas, formerly the director of information-technology services and currently the head of Internet research. Campus networks were in their infancy when she began her programs, but now the university is part of a consortium building a high-speed…

Discusses wireless local area networks (LANs) which typically consist of laptop computers that connect to fixed access points via infrared or radio signals. Topics include wide area networks; personal area networks; problems, including limitations of available bandwidth, interference, and security concerns; use in education; interoperability;…

Uses the example of Dallas County Community College District to describe the computer hardware components needed to deliver online education. (EV)

Describes Sun Microsystems' Open Net Environment--Sun ONE--an open system for creating, assembling, and deploying Web services. Along with other software products, it can help various departments' computers and databases "talk" to each other. (EV)

Evaluates the impact for higher education institutions of networking PROSPECT (HE). Discusses the rationale for networking and implementation strategies adopted. Data suggests that networking provides easier access in terms of both location and time, with no evidence of any reduction in the use of the careers services. (Author/GCP)

Provides a framework for discussing public computer systems (PCS) as tools in client-organization communication. Describes a three-level analysis scheme (object, functional, strategic) for client-organization encounters. Concludes that PCSs provide an important new focus for information-systems studies because they can be used to design new social…