Internet Primer

The Internet is a de-centralized network of computer networks that connects thousands of computer users in more than 40 countries. Each network links computers, much like highways connect cities, to facilitate the exchange of ideas and information. The Internet began about 20 years ago as an experiment by the Defense Department. It is now considered a prototype of the more sophisticated "Information Superhighway" being proposed. Today, people from many walks of life use the Internet for work, education, and recreation.

Why do teachers use the Internet? K-12 teachers help students hone their research skills by unleashing the enormous potential of the Internet. Here are some examples:

Q: How can the Internet assist environmental science students?
A: Students can download images from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to track the progress of storms, hurricanes, and earthquakes from around the world.

Q: What are some options for using the Internet in English classes?
A: Through electronic mail, students can exchange ideas, poetry, and stories with other students in the U.S. or abroad. One class compiled an International Literary Anthology via electronic correspondence.

Q: How can modern language classes utilize the Internet resources?
A: One French teacher has her students communicate with students learning French, in other parts of the country, through the Internet. They improved their language skills by discussing their local environments and communities.

Why do teachers use the Internet? Michael Yoakam, of the Center for Excellence in Education at Indiana University, says teachers use it to "model new ways to access information that will become the reality for the students' future." Teachers can help students' to hone their research skills by unleashing the enormous potential of the Internet.

By gaining access to the Internet, teachers and students can also: use retrieval systems like "Gopher" to find information for research projects; browse through the Library of Congress card catalog; send electronic mail to colleagues around the globe; read and post notices or lesson plans on electronic bulletin boards (Several Teacher Talk lessons have come from these); or subscribe to any of hundreds of newsgroups, which are like topical newspapers read on the computer screen. Newsgroups cover a broad range of topics including Distance Education, Autism, Ethics, or Politics.

To link up to the Internet, you need a computer, a modem, and a telephone line. Next, you will need access to an institution or agency that is linked to the Internet. Most colleges and universities are linked, as are most state's Departments of Education. To learn more, contact the technology coordinator at your school or call the Department of Education in your state. We look forward to meeting you and your students in cyberspace!

With so many services, how does one gain access to this valuable resource? Universities and corporations can sometimes provide access for nearby public schools. Several online computer services provide limited access, but offer additional services available only to subscribers. Only a few road maps are available for the "information superhighway." Therefore, you are encouraged to explore and to ask directions. Remember, though, even if you get lost, you will never be far from home. Most state departments of education have a consultant well traveled in "cyberspace."

Additional Reading:

Online Computer Services

(involve user fees):

Access Providers:

For additional information about access providers, call InterNIC Information Services at 1-800-444-4345.

This document was last updated 6/29/97 by Chandra Hawley.
Copyright1996 Indiana University - Center for Adolescent Studies, all rights reserved.
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