The original goal of an information center was to create an environment wherein end users could generate their own analyses and management reports from institutional data without the direct aid of information systems staff. It is suggested, however, that real productivity gains are not being achieved. (MLW)

Presents an overview of the South Pacific Telecommunications Development Programme (SPTDP), which is designed to extend the present telecommunications, infrastructures to provide network-connected telephones to more communities. Highlights include satellite networks in the area, telegraph and television services, user requirements, and cost…

Networking trends have accelerated the convergence of computers and communications. With this and the increasing need to share resources and information, educators are faced with many considerations concerning vendor selection, equipment compatibility, performance criteria, wire and cable specifications, and installation of selection systems to…

Presents an overview of telecommunications and its use in the field of education. Topics discussed include conferencing, electronic messaging, distance learning, networking, database searching, and projects relating to educational telecommunications sponsored by the International Council for Computers in Education (ICCE). (LRW)

This overview of the telecommunications environment discusses: (1) influences of technology, economics, politics, and government; (2) legal separations and jurisdictions; (3) pricing policies; and (4) bypass of local facilities. Probable changes and impacts on national and local information servers, local telecommunications carriers, and…

Six library consultants address issues related to the future of online catalogs, including (1) types of material that will be accessible; (2) the role of the automated library; (3) evolving beyond the current objectives of library automation; (4) new technologies; and (5) the library profession's image of the future. (3 references) (MES)

This discussion of the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) telecommunications system compares it to existing telephone networks and describes international efforts at standardization, proposed services to business and residential customers, technological developments, and cost considerations. The effects of ISDN developments on the role of…

Uses symbolic interactionism to understand media choice processes during managerial communications--studying communication incidents involving face-to-face, telephone, electronic mail, and written media. Suggests that managers' choices are influenced by (1) ambiguity of the message content and richness of the communication medium, (2) symbolic…

Describes how schools in geographically remote areas are utilizing telecommunication technologies as an educational tool to increase teaching resources and expand educational offerings. Interactive long-distance instructional programs using a variety of technologies are outlined. (MD)

Claims that global trends toward deregulation in the telecommunication and media field are affecting national domestic communication policies of individual European states. Explains how the case of Ireland illustrates that public service media systems of Western Europe are being integrated into an international marketplace dominated by U.S.…

Discusses symbol systems and learning in educational media. Symbols in printed materials, video, and other electronic media are discussed; media attributes are reviewed; suggestions for student-created video productions are given; and electronic communications technology of the future is considered. (LRW)

Reviews the Linked Systems project protocols in the Name Authority Distribution Application and describes the requirements they were designed to meet. A technical evaluation of the protocols in actual operation at OCLC is presented, and suggestions for improved performance are made. (Author/CLB)

The automation of online order retrieval for Chemical Abstracts Service Document Delivery Service was accomplished by shifting to an order retrieval/dispatch process linked to a Unix network. The Unix-based environment, its terminal emulation, page-break, and user-friendly interface software, and later enhancements are reviewed. Resultant increase…

Reviews influence of technology on rural peoples' interaction patterns throughout this century. Describes importance of information as an input into production against background of uncertainties as transition to information age occurs. Discusses five features of emerging rural information structure. Identifies four areas of significant social…

Describes a study of children's use of radio over the grade school years. Documents patterns of radio use and lists several categories of reasons offered by children for their use of the radio. (MS)