Econet on Web:
Computer networking for educators
In the not-too-distant future, we foresee that visitors to a local
school will find the teacher and students hunched over a computer
screen, connected via modem to EcoNet on Web. Using the global resources
of Association for Progressive Communications (APC) Networks, they'll
be communicating with fellow activists all over the world and collecting
the latest information on environmental problems.
EcoNet is the environmental sub-network of Web, the Canadian member
of the APC. Web offers a wide range of computer networking facilities
for the Canadian educational community. These facilities include
access to global electronic mail services; computer conferences
on topics such as environment, peace, human rights, local and international
development, health, and human services; fax and telex services;
databases; and inexpensive global communications with users in over
70 countries.
Schools have been using the news service, which gives them immediate
knowledge of events right from their source, including South Africa
and Eastern bloc countries. Access is via public telephone lines,
making connection (with just a local call) possible from almost
anywhere in the country.
The APC Networks sprang into existence in 1987, with links established
between GreenNet in Europe, Web in Canada, and the Institute for
Global Communications in the United States. Since then, many other
countries have joined this international association of integrated
networks to provide a global network that is now used by World Wildlife
Fund, GreenPeace, Friends of the Earth, Amnesty International and
thousands of other human rights, environment and peace groups. Users
in over 70 countries participate in more than 800 global online
conferences.
Educators are just now beginning to realize how valuable Web can
be and they are joining the network in ever-increasing numbers.
Currently, teachers and students in over 50 schools and a dozen
universities are now online in Canada. We think that it will prove
to be an exceptional learning resource, especially for science and
social studies classes.
Material particularly relevant to teachers is provided on EcoNet
by the North American Association for Environmental Education and
the Alliance for Environmental Education. This includes:
- Teaching aids, classroom experimenting and exploring kits, books
on environmental education topics and methods.
- Reports on trends and practices in current environmental education
curricula.
- List of environmental education databases and other searchable
electronic resources.
Of particular interest is the capability for participation in discussion
forums originating on BITNET, the network that connects thousands
of universities and colleges in North America and abroad. Web allows
primary and secondary schools to have the same services as post-secondary
institutions.
If you are interested in getting connected, contact Web at
456 Spadina Avenue, 2nd Floor, Toronto, Ontario M5T 2G8, (416) 929-0634
Rory O'Brien
Rory O'Brien joined NIRV in 1988 and now works as the Web Coordinator
in Toronto.
From Green Teacher for Feb 1991
(CX5075)
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