Defines the Integrated Information Center (IIC) as an emerging information technology-intensive environment which captures, integrates, and provides information resources to academic departments. Sample IIC configurations are described--i.e., expertise poor/technology poor; expertise rich/technology poor; expertise poor/technology rich; expertise…

Described are some of the ways in which computers can enter invisibly into people's lives. The social issues that embodied virtuality will engender are discussed. The hardware and software, connected by wires, radio waves, and infrared that will allow this to occur are described. (KR)

Creative applications of computer networks are discussed. Products and services of the future that come from imaginative applications of both channel and computing capacity are described. The topics of entertainment, transactions, and electronic personal surrogates are included. (KR)

Describes a study that was conducted to investigate instructional planning by university faculty who taught adult learners via interactive telecommunications technology in a distance education program. Results indicate that faculty focused on term rather than day-to-day planning, selection and sequencing of content, and developing an extended…

Telecommunications and computer technologies are impacting future policy decisions regarding reservation development and Indian education. Describes three kinds of virtual American Indian organizations within telecommunications networks (Internet, individual bulletin board services, and commercial networks). Recommends that plans for tribal…

Discusses the impact of the telecommunication experience on student skills (thinking, reading, writing, group dynamics, and basic computer literacy) and student motivation and attitudes (educational attitudes, self-concept, and world view). Discusses indirect learning as the heart of the project approach to education. Lists research questions on…

Community colleges have historically been leaders in using information technology to serve students better. Examples of new applications of technology to transform teaching systems and organization include collaborative writing projects, electronic forums, independent learning systems, and distance learning. (MSE)

Examines collaborative projects conducted in cooperation with teacher training and higher education institutions worldwide, offering a rationale for using electronic mail in internationally cooperative projects with schools. Electronic mail enhances teacher education by supporting constructivist approaches to learning and encouraging closer…

Discussion of the National Research and Education Network (NREN) highlights distance education programs that have been developed at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). Topics discussed include nontraditional students; an evolving view of knowledge and learning; new communications technologies; computer communications at RIT; hearing-impaired…

Describes the Televised Interactive Education System, linking three community colleges in the Eastern Iowa Community College District. Considers the ways in which this point-to-point microwave system facilitates the active involvement of students in the learning process through two-way audio and video interactivity. (PAA)

Describes telecommunications developments in Saskatchewan that culminated in SCAN, the Saskatchewan Communications Advanced Network. The use of SCAN for equal access to information highlights distance education; community television; cultural information; education services; access to computer databases; the development of a Public Broadcast…

Although computer-based resources are appealing, there is little evidence that they are superior to less expensive traditional educational technologies in medical and dental education, and their introduction will be slow until we learn to benefit from them. However, the communications aspects of technology may be much more important and should be…

Discusses the use of multimedia equipment for distance education. Topics addressed include use of the Internet; distance learning for educators; and cable television and/or fiber optics, including interactive television and satellite technology. A sidebar lists online and telecommunications providers. (LRW)

Describes European initiatives concerned with development of networked learner support (NLS) in higher education, including the NetLinkS, IMPEL2 (Impact on People on Electronic Libraries), TAPin (Training and Awareness Programme in Networks), T3 (Telematics for Teacher Training), and EDUCATE projects. Discusses themes relating to professional…

Explains how students are able to interact with a team of interplanetary scientists at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) by using the Iowa Communications Network (ICN). Discusses the professional development component in detail. (DDR)