Despite the best of intentions, qualitative researchers can be faced, in some circumstances, with having to make meaning from thin, or less than optimal, data. Using a real study as context, the authors describe the ways that they made sense of their thin data on teachers' perceptions of a large-scale evaluation instrument. They propose a…

Describes the three most active computerized discussion forums available to educational researchers on BITNET: the Educational Research List (ERL-L), the Education Policy Analysis List (EDPOLYAN), and the Educational Technology List (EDTECH). Lists nine other BITNET discussion groups of related interest. Addresses and access information are…

A stratified random sample of 96 employees in a large firm saved a hard copy of all incoming and outgoing electronic mail for a 3-day period. Proposes a framework for understanding how electronic communication could affect group behavior in organizations. (70 references) (MLF)

Discusses the conceptual roots of computer-mediated collaboration in real-time networks and the software environments that currently support these networks. Examines the informal and formal electronic-mail networks in the United Kingdom. Speculates on future developments for this emerging technology. (JJK)

This brief note is a description and invitation to educators, practitioners, and researchers to participate in AEDNET, a special network of electronic mail created for people in adult education. The description of AEDNET provides a history of the network and lists current and future benefits of AEDNET. Information is then presented on joining…

Describes research undertaken at Open University (Great Britain) and Deakin University (Australia) in the use of international communication by electronic mail for (1) the collaborative study of distance education and (2) use of international course teams in preparing distance teaching materials. The electronic mail system and difficulties…

Reports the results of a survey designed to determine the frequency and purpose of individuals' use of electronic mail in relation to their professional development. Survey was distributed using three newsletters found on BITNET. Finds that electronic mail is replacing other means of communication and stimulating new communication among diverse…

Reviews a computerized monitoring system for distance education students at Athabasca University designed to solve the problems of tracking student performance. A pilot project for tutors is described which includes an electronic conferencing system and electronic mail, and an evaluation currently in progress is briefly discussed. (LRW)

Provides a concise overview of the potential role of the Internet for helping geography students in their studies. Briefly describes and discusses e-mail communication with groups and individuals, downloading databases, researching information for assignments, publishing on the World Wide Web, and virtual fieldwork. Lists a number of useful Web…

Describes the development of a computer-assisted college course in group performance skills (GPS) which was designed to expand the instructor's ability to monitor development of individual performance skills and assess their influence on the group output. Computer-mediated communication is explained, and its implications for distance education are…

Reports on the results of a University of Arizona experiment that used electronic mail to supplement traditional modes of student/instructor interaction in four courses in electrical and computer engineering. Results indicated that students liked electronic mail to supplement their discourse with their instructors. (TW)

Examines potential of computer communications in distance education based on trials of electronic mail and computer conferencing at British Open University. Highlights include descriptions of two courses that experimented with MAIL MANAGER electronic mail software, and a discussion of the role of tutors as potential moderators of conferences.…

Advances in computing hardware and software, voice and electronic communications, electronic mail, and the information highway will affect the work environment for institutional researchers. In addition, as teaching, learning, and administrative processes are reengineered, the traditional analytical skills of these professionals will be useful in…

Reviews database management software options for academic applications of pedagogy and research offering practical suggestions on choosing software. Software reviewed includes dBase III, Reflex, FYI 3000, Notebook II, AskSAM, Electra-Find, and Practicase. Program advantages, disadvantages, features, flexibility, and costs are discussed. A…

Describes and evaluates a project which used electronic mail in correspondence teaching for geographically isolated elementary level home students. Problems with equipment used for communication--videotex, facsimile, computers, and telephones--are discussed together with reasons for the generally successful outcome of the project. Sample materials…