Networking ========== BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF TOOL ------------------------- Within the Maricopa County Community College District, a number of different levels of networking are used for communications. These include: + Local Area Networks (LAN) - a network of computers and peripherals for file sharing and resource sharing, usually among a work group. A single LAN can be connected to other LANs at a local college or to other LANs across the distnct. + Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) - a network of computers at remote locations which are connected using either leased lines or privately-owned transmission systems. The Maricopa Metropolitan Area Network uses our district-owned digital microwave network to connect our VAX computers and local area networks at each college to all other colleges and the District Office. Sometimes this Metropolitan Area Network is also referred to as a Wide Area Network or WAN. + Global Area Network (GAN) - Through a leased line connection to Arizona State University and, from there to the University of Arizona, Maricopa is connected to networks of computers around the United States and the world through BITNET and Internet. IMPORTANT FEATURES OF TOOL -------------------------- Regardless of the type of network being used, the important features are the ability of the users to electronically communicate through some type of mail system, to share peripheral devices such as printers, and to share files or documents electronically. WHO WOULD USE THIS TOOL? ------------------------ This tool is used by faculty, students, administrators, and staff throughout the District. HOW DOES THE TOOL SUPPORT EFFECTIVE TEACHING AND LEARNING? ---------------------------------------------------------- Networking supports effective teaching and learning by enabling students and faculty to work with each other electronically, and to participate in collaborative teaching and learning experiences. CONTACT PERSON -------------- Contact your college computer coordinator for more information.