The Internet as Intranet: Moving toward the Electronic Classroom

Abstract

Recently, businesses have begun to utilize Intranets for internal corporate collaboration. As private networks with the functionality, compatibility, and openness of the Internet, the Intranet concept raises unique possibilities for higher education. Most colleges and universities have access to the Internet, and communications of a classroom can be electronically facilitated by a simulated Intranet with little difficulty. We present herein the results of a case study in which the Internet was used in a manner similar to that of corporate Intranets, but in college classrooms. Our Intranets were used with two objectives: first, acquainting students with the usage and power of the Internet, and second, supporting the communication processes of the classes. Based on the results, recommendations are made for Intranet use applicable to both academic and business settings.