This two-phase study of the use of networks and information retrieval systems by schools in Australia was designed to inquire as to the extent that schools are using all available networks; how appropriate and effective these sources of information are for schools; how costly such services might be; and what developments can be reasonably expected in the near future that will impact on schools. Data were gathered via a documentary analysis of promotional material and other relevant material pertaining to the networks and information systems; discussions with individuals involved with the school usage of such services, e.g., teachers, principals, librarians, and, where possible, students; and discussions with representatives of service providers. Following an executive summary and a brief introduction, the report includes: (1) a description of the project methodology; (2) a report of the findings of both phases of the project; (3) a brief discussion of the representativeness of the sample used and comments on specific networks; (4) conclusions reached concerning funding, expense, availability, suitability, representativeness, rationales for and against use of networking and information systems in schools, and teacher training; and (5) recommendations on the role of school libraries, standardization, further research needs, extension of current ASCIS services, bulletin board systems, and commercial sponsorships. Also included are a glossary of terms and 30 references, and a list of the sources of information for the study is appended. (EW)