Discusses online searching with the new 9600 baud rate and describes test searches on the BRS, Data-Star, LEXIS, and Dow Jones databases through three packet-switching networks: US Sprint, MEADNET, and TYMNET. Hardware and software are described, data communications equipment standards are discussed, and the impact of higher baud rates on pricing…

Describes two ways of organizing distance education: using telecommunications to duplicate traditional classroom teaching; and reorganizing educational resources with a total systems perspective, including sources of knowledge, structures of knowledge, and media of communication. An example from higher education is discussed, students'…

Telecommunications can reduce rural isolation, improve access to education and services, and increase business efficiency. But urban and international competition may limit telecommunications benefits for rural areas and may possibly widen the development gap. Still, telecommunications are an essential part of rural development strategy.…

Estimated 50,000 teachers worldwide are using the Internet to tap university computerized library catalogs, exchange E-mail, read news bulletins, and join "chat" groups on various topics. FrEdMail (Free Educational Electronic Mail) is a nonprofit chain of computer bulletin boards giving schools the ability to exchange messages,…

Argues that, because of its heavy technological emphasis, telecommunications will tend toward instrumental, applied forms of research. Notes alternative research traditions that see telecommunications as part of the social history of communications technology. Discusses implications for the contemporary study of telecommunications. (SR)

Describes new information technologies that expand learning opportunities in higher education, both on and off campus. The impact of national data transmission facilities, a brief history of the use of educational technology, examples of applications of hybrid technology systems, partnerships with telephone companies, and the future outlook are…

Urges community colleges to become involved in the delivery of work force training through the Community Learning Information Network (CLIN). Highlights CLIN's responsiveness to employers' needs, cost savings through shared equipment, CLIN site design, user-friendly instructional equipment, the opening of new markets for community colleges, and…

Discussion of the right to privacy of communications focuses on privacy expectations within a National Research and Education Network (NREN). Highlights include privacy needs in scientific and education communications; academic and research networks; network security and privacy concerns; protection strategies; and consequences of privacy…

Discusses telecommunications between computers and terminals and the software needed to transfer information files between computers. Technical management of computers and telecommunications in libraries is considered, computer networks are discussed, and a glossary of terms encountered in computer communications is presented. (Six references)…

Basic information for teachers on using computer networks is offered, including local area networks; national and global networks; electronic mail; finding a connection (local bulletin board systems, college and university computer systems, and state and regional systems); and the Internet. (DB)

Explains the use of satellite connections for Internet access and whether this access route is useful for colleges and universities compared to current traditional connections. Comparison of startup costs and hardware needs are discussed, as as is one college's answer to providing Internet services without the cost, overhead, or installation…

The theme for this supplement is "Teaching the Teachers" and contains 10 articles. Among the topics are battling resistance to technology, ways teachers can use e-mail to extend students' learning, a board member's ventures into cyberspace, and school management software. (MLF)

Discussion of the need for interaction in distance learning focuses on the use of response systems, an interactive network that uses phone lines and modems to facilitate communication. Experiences using a One Touch system at Grambling State University are described. (LRW)

Uses contrasting models of communication to illuminate historical tensions between the policy goals of liberalization and democratization. Asserts that the present public-policy conception of telecommunications is more closely aligned with the transmission model than with a community-cultural-ritual model. (CR)

Examines some of the characteristics and needs of adult learners contrasted with traditional learners in colleges and universities, and considers distance education as a vehicle to meet these needs. A case study demonstrates possibilities with different communications technologies, including videoconferencing. (LRW)