Defines local area networks (LANs); describes basic components and configurations of LANs; and discusses LANs benefits (reduced costs, better management of computer resources, enhanced communications) and pitfalls (hidden costs, time delays, network maintenance, lack of standardization, network security breaches, lack of network compatible…

Addresses the problem of making appropriate use of computers in educational settings by describing use of an electronic mail package in a support role for a bachelor's degree business course at Western Australia Institute of Technology. Students' and teachers' views on use of MAIL and its benefits are discussed. (MBR)

This article examines the concept of interactivity and discusses human-to-human interactivity versus computer-to-human interaction in education. Levels of communicative interdependence are explained, variables that are important ingredients of interactivity are discussed, learner control is discussed, and two interactive instructional systems are…

Discussion of electronic mail and computer-mediated communication focuses on local bulletin board systems (BBSs) that run on microcomputers. Uses in education and businesses are described, computer requirements and costs are outlined, bulletin board software is discussed, and echo networking is explained. (Four references) (LRW)