Discusses potential applications of computer technology to enhance participatory democracy and considers the effects of advances in computer technology, including increased power and decreased costs, on political and community activists. Constraints are described, including international inequity and the commercialization of government data; and…

Discusses the need for more technology training for library employees. Highlights include computer literacy skills; productivity; knowledge of operating systems; troubleshooting with hardware; ongoing training in information technology; and placing more importance on the computer skills of prospective employees. (LRW)

A systematic approach to teaching software provides instructional precision and maximum learning support, best suited for novices. A minimalist approach focused on context and student experience enables advanced learners to examine problem-solving processes and apply concepts to real-world problems. (SK)

Describes a project at a middle school in Michigan, stretching across several years, that provided students with the equipment and training to make them computer literate. Discusses hopes and plans for educational uses of the Internet, e-mail and electronic bulletin boards, and various software. (SR)

Responses from Canadian personnel managers (265 women, 148 men) indicated that women spent more time using computers; both men and women used information technologies (fax, voice mail, modem, scanner, copiers, etc.) extensively; and women used computers more often than men for word-processing tasks. (SK)

Freshmen in a microcomputer class (n=33) used cooperative learning and watched instructor demonstrations; a control group (n=36) worked independently and received verbal instructions. Previous computer experience influenced achievement. A combination of cooperative/independent and verbal instruction/demonstration methods was recommended. (SK)

Second-year Scottish business students engaged in workshops to develop skills in Web site creation, writing, design, and graphics. They gained heightened awareness of the Web as a business tool and transferable skills. Large class size, technical problems, and low computer literacy were hindrances to learning. (SK)

Summarizes the developments in educational media in Slovenia as it prepares for the twenty-first century. Describes the Computer Literacy program, which was initiated by the government to help in the introduction and use of modern media and information technology in the educational process. (Author/LRW)

Teachers experienced with entry-level technology tools are poised to move from literacy to fluency. The Independent Professional Development in Technology model was developed to extend individual professional development in classroom applications of newer, more sophisticated educational technologies. Design, benefits, and implementation strategies…

A reference and education librarian relates her experience of teaching a class of adult professionals about PubMed, the National Library of Medicine's tool for accessing the MEDLINE database. Discussion includes preparing to teach a class of peers; letting adult students try things themselves; and saving time for questions. Highlights several…

A qualitative evaluation of videoconference delivery of continuing medical education in a hospital identified media limitations and technical difficulties in instructor presentation and access by remote sites. Physician-instructors needed training in communication and technical skills. Trained site facilitators and improved equipment were…

Analyzes struggles faced by African Americans regarding internet use by discussing how race and class based factors block many African Americans from cyberspace access and participation. Examines how the lives of African Americans on the World Wide Web and in real life are further hampered by violent, white racist internet use and briefly…

A study of 281 college students in a computer applications course found that prior computer experience, use of the computer for other class assignments, and amount of time spent on assignments influenced achievement. (SK)

Addresses the current status and future presence of the Internet in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and provides a look at the reactions of two young, middle-class Saudi businessmen who were exposed to the Internet for the first time. (Author/AEF)

A study of 326 undergraduate students who completed the business computer literacy requirement before the business communication course performed better. Another prerequisite, freshman composition, also affected business communication grades. (JOW)