Provides background on networks and describes two national networks, the Internet and BITNET. Several related topics are also addressed: convergence of BITNET and the Internet; network decentralization; a proposed comprehensive national research and education network (NREN); libraries and the proposed network; and the library of the future. A…

This proposed project would define standards to describe in machine-readable format the information needed to create electronic "books" in a standard communications format. Proposed formats (employing the MARC structure) could be used to convert printed works to electronic forms or create original works in electronic format, and thus…

Discusses problems that new information technologies have created for intellectual property concerns. Digital sampling devices used in music are described, downloading from large databases is discussed, the problems with derivative works are considered, outdated copyright laws are discussed, and ways that librarians can help protect intellectual…

Offers selections from a plan that focuses on the basics of getting telecommunications moving in schools. Gives suggestions on learning how to use telecommunications, funding for technology, and education about and promotion of telecommunications, both within the school and in the larger community. (SR)

Describes activities sponsored by some of the 28 state Centers for the Books, affiliated with the national Center for the Book at the Library of Congress, that were created to stimulate public interest in books, reading, and libraries. Highlights include electronic bulletin boards, satellite conferences, and children's book fairs. (LRW)

Describes ways to make searching on the Internet easier when using dial-up access as opposed to dedicated computer terminals or workstations. Programs to make Internet directory access easier are reviewed; customizing start-up files is explained; and being familiar with communications software is discussed. (LRW)

Describes interorganizational information systems and the necessity for cooperation. Topics discussed include managerial considerations, including objectives, benefits, and resources; considerations in systems development, including telecommunications skills; considerations for users of information systems, including user needs; and considerations…

Presents the factors used to determine whether a particular use of a copyrighted work is fair use; considers the re-evaluation of fair use forced by the NII (National Information Infrastructure); and discusses universal service (i.e., access to telecommunications service for everyone) and the universal service fund. (MES)

Information technology can remove barriers of time and location, institutional requirements, and prior schooling attitudes. However, it can impose new ones such as socioeconomic inequities in access. Privately sponsored virtual learning environments tend to focus on only a narrow base of core skills and competencies. (SK)

Discusses the necessity for incorporating current technology in today's college residence halls to meet the more diverse and continued activities of its students. Technology addressed covers data networking and telecommunications, heating and cooling systems, and fire-safety systems. (GR)

Responses from 47% of 3,540 U.S. and German employees of a multinational company revealed lower levels of transformational leadership among Germans and other cultural differences in work values. Cultural values predicted leadership style. Job category had a main effect on cultural values. (SK)

Describes three types of interactive distance-education systems under development in Taiwan: real-time multicast systems; virtual-classroom systems; and curriculum-on-demand systems. Discusses the use of telecommunications and computer technology in higher education, problems and challenges, and future prospects. (Author/LRW)

Describes a cooperative effort using telecommunications. Utilizes a potential e-mail dialog between the authors and a secondary mathematics teacher from a rural Kansas community who had heard about the interclass Hexiety project, which allows students to develop a context for their mathematical knowledge, to present ideas about the project. (ASK)

Presents examples of innovative public/private partnerships that have successfully provided affordable telephone access to school classrooms. Contact information for each of the programs is provided. (GR)

Discusses how teachers can become certified as distance learning specialists and how to improve skills needed to teach with telecommunications technologies. Highlights include programs in North Carolina; Utah State University's Distance Learning Endorsement Program; the University of Wisconsin's Distance Education Certificate Program; and the…