Although Internet, a major computerized information network, makes massive quantities of information available free to users, there are concerns associated with it, including the lack of permanent storage of information and the need for colleges to recover costs incurred in making information available off-campus. (MSE)

Compared response rates, response time, and costs of mail and electronic surveys using a sample of 377 college faculty members. Mail surveys yielded a higher response rate and a lower rate of undeliverable surveys, but response time was longer and costs were higher than for electronic surveys. (SLD)

Describes what electronic mail is, how it works, and suggests how it can be used by university administrators. National and international academic networks are described, institutional costs of network memberships are discussed, and procedures for connecting to a network and for using a network are explained. (13 references) (LRW)

This paper surveys the various teleconferencing trials in the Open University, and attempts to analyze why they have been relatively unsuccessful compared to other new media initiatives such as audio cassettes and computer assisted learning. The situation is placed in the context of British and European educational use of telecommunications in…

A survey of academic librarians determined that the use of e-mail in the follow-up stage of a library research project using mailed questionnaires was as effective as postal mail in speed and size of response. Discusses additional benefits (interpersonal communication, reduced time and costs) and drawbacks (time spent identifying messages…

Describes a trial use of electronic mail to interview academic teachers on how they plan subject courses. Advantages of electronic interviewing, such as cost and convenience, and issues, including complying with network etiquette, are discussed. A copy of part of the electronic interview used in the trial is appended. (Contains two references.)…

Computer networks are changing the way public relations offices are staying in touch with faculty, staff, and students. Applications include electronic bulletin boards and newsletters, campuswide videotext availability, events calendars, and employment listings. The costs vary considerably depending on existing equipment and systems and program…

The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of using an electronic bulletin board in an off-campus doctoral program (Ed.D.) for health professionals offered by the University of Georgia. Participants included 14 doctoral students (13 female and 1 male) enrolled in an advanced course, Research in Instruction, who received training in…

Discusses the Intercultural Learning Network, an international computer network designed to enable students from different cultures to work with one another. Questions addressed include whether it is technically possible, economically feasible, and useful for instructional purposes; what organizational structures are required; and whether it can…

Discusses history and development of the academic computer network BITNET, including BITNET Network Support Center's growth and services, and international expansion. Network users, reasons for growth, and future developments are reviewed. A BITNET applications sampler and listings of compatible computers and operating systems, sites, and…

Reports on the installation of a local area network (LAN) at East Carolina University. Topics include designing the network; computer labs and electronic mail; Internet connectivity; LAN expenses; and recommendations on planning, equipment, administration, and training. A glossary of networking terms is also provided. (AEF)

Describes the activities of SURFnet BV, a research network that provides information and communication services in higher education and scientific or industrial research in The Netherlands. Topics discussed include standardization; user services, including electronic mail; costs of using SURFnet; user support services; and the role of libraries 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…

Discusses reasons for staff resistance to library CD-ROM services based on responses on electronic bulletin boards from primarily academic libraries in North America and the United Kingdom. Highlights include psychological reasons; problems of multiple interfaces; increased teaching load; increased costs; increased stress; maintenance time; and…

Describes the ELVYN project in the United Kingdom that investigated the scenario of dual publishing (in electronic and print formats) of journals in the physical sciences by delivery of the electronic file from the publisher to academic libraries. Topics include implementation, use of the World Wide Web and electronic mail, usage data, and cost…