Technological Challenges and Opportunities in
the United States Education Information Network
Collaboration and Service Delivery

What would you do if...

...a high school mathematics teacher asked for help in demonstrating
an algebraic concept according to standards of the National Council
of Teachers of Mathematics?

...a school board member wanted a copy of the sections of the
Americans With Disabilities Act that pertain to educational facilities?

...an elementary school student wanted to connect with students in a
European country who could work cooperatively collecting
environmental data?

...a school system superintendent wanted statistics on high school
dropout rates for the past 3 years so that she could compare local rates
with national figures?

...a Ministry of Education official from Peru wanted a schematic
diagram of the structure of the American education system?

...a parent wanted information that would help his 9 year old son to
use the computer in creative ways to enhance his school work?

...a social studies curriculum specialist wanted an audio recording of
the "I Have a Dream" speech of Martin Luther King, Jr.?

...a school library media specialist needed a list of all the Newbery
Award books since the award was begun?

...a Department of Education staff member needed information about
the Department's data collecting policies fifty years ago.

...an education editor from a major teacher organization needed
pictures of high school students participating in science projects?

...a teacher educator wanted the source of video vignettes showing
student teachers working with small discussion groups in secondary
school settings?

Many more questions could be added to this list. The basic question is:"Where does each person go to obtain the needed information? As one reviews the list, it is obvious that there are several sources. A general rule is that the information seeker usually uses the "path of least resistance." If a teacher across the hall can suggest demonstration techniques that would help the mathematics teacher, the colleague would be a primary source. If the mathematics teacher knows about the Eisenhower National Clearinghouse for Mathematics and Science Education, that could be another source. If the teacher does not know where to turn, the National Library of Education might be the place to contact.

Library services for educators already exist. They do not have to be created. Within the existing National Library of Education there are four clusters of library service--many of them "virtual"--1-800 User Service, INet, ERIC and a library resources network. What seems to be required is a plan for amalgamation, collaboration and access that will lead to a comprehensive and seamless virtual library. The report of the National Library of Education (NLE) Advisory Task Force (Access for All, 1997) provides a helpful outline to explore the current and future role of technology in delivering library services primarily through electronic means.
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