This paper describes the development, operations, and effectiveness of the Principals' Computer Network (PCN)--an experimental program created (1) to allow principals to use their schools' microcomputers to access other principals' solutions to common instructional management problems; (2) to enable principals to request suggestions from their…

Three documents are presented which describe the Australian Open Learning Information Network (AOLIN)--a national, independent, and self-supporting network of educational researchers with a common interest in the use of information technology for open and distance education--and discuss two evaluative studies undertaken by the organization. The…

Ways that technology is being integrated into the instructional and administrative operation of U.S. colleges are considered, along with the application of one of the technologies, microwave, to adult learning opportunities. Changing demographics relating to adult learners over the next 10 to 15 years are identified. Eight projects applying…

This Office of Technology Assessment report on the current state of research and development in the telecommunications industry in the United States examines four specific areas of research as case studies: computer architecture, artificial intelligence, fiber optics, and software engineering. It discusses the structure and orientation of some…

From a European perspective, this paper focuses on a set of issues affecting the emerging information economy. Among the issues covered are: developing a means of measuring the value of information and knowledge; studying other institutions such as the United States Department of Defense and the United States venture capital industry which are…

Noting that the educational sector in Britain has been a small but influential user of videotex systems since the launch of the public Prestel service in 1979, this paper surveys the main trial uses in education. The studies reviewed begin with a 1-year trial of Prestel in 1980-81, which identified two applications as having further potential: as…

The purpose of this project is to investigate the potential of communication networks using electronic mail, computer conferencing, and electronic databases for education and training at a distance within the Open Univeristy system of Great Britain, although it would be applicable within other contexts. This report discusses (1) the rationale for…

Designed for educational evaluators, this paper discusses reasons for the growing concern with linking or interfacing computers for information sharing; compares three major approaches to linking; and discusses the implications of each. An initial overview presents three linking applications in educational evaluation: (1) linking microcomputers…

This study enumerates statutes of the 98th Congress treating information-related concerns. Limited to public laws of a substantive nature, the topical overview of areas of congressional concern is divided into nine sections: (1) Federal Information Resources Management; (2) International Communications and Information Policy; (3)…

Background information on the use of telecourses across the nation and, specifically, in Arkansas is provided in this report along with recommendations for policies and procedures relative to the use of telecourses by Arkansas colleges and universities. After tracing national trends in the acceptance of telecourses, an overview is provided of what…

This paper describes Alaska's state-managed telecommunications system, and details state efforts to increase the value of the state's information system to users within state government and in the private sector. The results of two studies conducted in 1986 at the request of the State Legislature are discussed, i.e., a statewide survey of Alaskan…

Changes and development in Chinese television (CCTV) over the past 28 years have had profound effects on Chinese society. National News, which has the biggest television audience, has enabled the populace to know what is happening in China. Educational programming is given high priority through special telecourses presented for society in general,…

This paper describes the history of the use of distance learning systems by New York State schools, Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES), and postsecondary institutions since 1985. Several projects are briefly described which use a variety of telecommunications media, such as cable television, microwave, audiographic…

This paper reviews the use of different audio-visual media in distance education, including terrestrial broadcasting, cable satellite, videocassettes, audiocassettes, telephone teaching, viewdata, teletext, microcomputers, and interactive video. Trends in distance education are also summarized and related to trends in media technology development.…

The purpose of phase I of a feasibility study was to provide information to serve as guidelines for implementation of telecommunications into the office technology curriculum at Jefferson College. Extensive research of available literature and interviews with users and vendors of telecommunications equipment provided the background necessary for…