The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the history, development, and services of the packet switching network services that currently exist in the United States. The character of packet switching, a computerized method of transmitting data, is used as the basis for tracing the development of the industry itself. Contending that the…

Telewriting, televideo, and facsimile systems are new forms of teleconferencing which can transmit a variety of graphic and pictorial information on voice-grade telephone lines. All of the equipment employs solid-state circuitry to enhance performance and to exploit the limitations of a narrowband channel. Telewriters range from simple…

Discusses the developments that have positively or adversely affected abstracting and indexing services over the past several decades, addressing such topics as the impact of computers and the migration from print-on-paper to online information provision. Forecasts for the near and long-term future are made and a reference list is included. (JL)

Discusses processes involved in development, operation, and utilization of bibliographic databases--design, data collection, processing, access, and use--and assesses their relevance to developing countries. Utilization of other countries' databases, use of services of organizatons in other countries, and participation in a cooperative system are…

The "communications revolution" and its impact on education is discussed, and definitions of services are provided. Educational applications of communication (the combination of computers and communications) are described and roles for colleges and universities in expanding data communications use are suggested. (BH)

The author describes the floppy disk with an analogy to the phonograph record, and discusses the advantages, disadvantages, and capabilities of hard-sectored and soft-sectored floppy disks. She concludes that, at present, the floppy disk will continue to be the primary choice of personal computer manufacturers and their customers. (KC)

The third report from a comprehensive Unesco study, this document traces the history of the application of computer-based technology to the book distribution process in the United States and indicates functional areas currently showing the effects of using this technology. Ways in which computer use is altering book distribution management…

Description of evolution of computer applications in U.S. educational administration is followed by an overview of the structure and governance of public education and Visscher's developmental framework. Typical administrative computer applications in education are discussed, including student records, personnel management, budgeting, library…

Explores the relationship between technological change in the library and information field, courses of study offered by universities, and courses requested by students for continuing education in West Germany. The three main subject areas emphasized are electronic data processing, online use, and new media. (LRW)

A series of 11 articles describes information technologies being used in the U.S. Congress, the impact of these technologies, and possible future developments. Included are a chronology of key actions affecting congressional information support and a list of readings in information technology and Congress. (CLB)

Reviews technological developments centered around microcomputers that have led to the design of integrated workstations. Topics discussed include methods of information storage, information retrieval, telecommunications networks, word processing, data management, graphics, interactive video, sound, interfaces, artificial intelligence, hypermedia,…

This paper addresses the extent to which retraining and training programs are available for employed and unemployed adults. First, demographic and economic shifts and projections into the next century are discussed as the context for needed training. Second, the promise and positive impacts of new technologies in office and business settings are…

More than 7 million workers in the United States today use computer-based video display terminals to do word and data processing; an overwhelming number of these workers are women. Women make up most of the occupational groups identified as "administrative support," and they are particularly affected by the changes taking place in the workplace.…

This part of a 2-part working paper identifies and describes major occupational groups that are characteristic of high technology manufacturing and service industries as well as employment sectors that use high technology products in their provision of goods and services. The paper is based on a review of a wide range of employment projections…

In this working paper on high technology industries, a few representative industries are studied in detail, while an overview is also given of the group as a whole. The overview, which highlights the findings of selected studies of the unique characteristics of high tech industries, considers such issues as locational factors, occupational and…