The evolutionary character and complexity of technological development is discussed, focusing on the steam engine and computer as examples. Additional topics include characteristics of science/technology, cultural factors in technological development, technology transfer, and problems in technological organization. (JN)

This document presents summaries of conference presentations which attempted to assess how computer and communications technologies can be harnessed to meet the special needs of elderly people. Each of the eight sessions of the conference opened with experts discussing their respective research projects and electronic technologies: their origins,…

The emphasis of this report is on the words "frail" and "home." Previous conferences in this inquiry concentrated on the needs and interests of the aging well population. This meeting focused on those whose full enjoyment of life is hampered by impairments to mobility, vision, hearing, memory, etc. The main interest was in the cognitive and…

Educators have used online technology in the past as information presentation tools and information storage tools to support learning. Researchers identify online technologies with large capacities and capabilities to enhance human learning in an interactive fashion. Online learning technology should move away from the use of computer technology…

Surveys new "peripherals," electronic devices that attach to computers. Devices such as videodisc players, desktop laser printers, large screen projectors, and input mechanisms that circumvent the keyboard dramatically expand the computer's instructional uses. (Author/LHW)

The author cites several examples to demonstrate what artificial intelligence currently can do for users and discusses the likely future applications of intelligent machinery. (CH)

Discusses the development and uses of the transistor, noting that it represented a transitional technology, bridging the gap between the vacuum tube and the microchip. (JN)

This electronic utility promises to instantly deliver to the classroom a vast array of constantly updated instructional materials--software, textbooks, news services, video, databases, reference sources, word processing, and spreadsheet tools--and to bring all of technology's capabilities together into one integrated system. (Author)

Discusses factors to be considered when deciding whether to buy typewriters, terminals, or microcomputers for the school typing room. Factors include (1) objectives of the typewriting program, (2) market needs, (3) student learning methods, (4) costs, and (5) instructional materials. (CH)

Reviews the area of telecomputing. Discusses system components, reasons to study telecomputing, system use, simulation programs (for teaching telecomputing without a modem), and database access. (CH)

Reviews principles for hardware selection, and forecasts the state of technology in terms of fidelity, feedback, and open architecture in language training. (six references) (GLR)

Highlights a National Academy of Engineering symposium ("The Long-Term Impact of Technology on Employment and Unemployment"). The symposium is the start of a study of radical effects of the computer revolution on jobs and on economic, social, and cultural systems. Includes comments from participants; several key questions discussed. (JN)

Discusses the evolution of the nationwide telecommunications network, including key technologies (transistors, communications satellites, and lasers), putting these technologies together, current and future services, and challenges for the future. (JN)

Explores the development of audiovisual instruction in the United States as an outgrowth of the industrial revolution and the development of more sophisticated communications technology in the mid twentieth century. (RAO)

Describes a new national electronic database to help social studies teachers locate up-to-date materials in global/international education. Called SCAN (System for Communication and Networking), the database was developed by Global Perspectives in Education. (RKM)