Network Infrastructure Development and Defense Industry Conversion for Satellite Towns: Using and Building an Electronic Distance Education System for Russia with Connections to the Worldwide Information Society

Significant developments over the past few years in communications and computer technology have encouraged many new applications. The Internet allows Russia's newly privatized enterprises, especially those in satellite towns of the former military-industrial-scientific complex, new ways to access worldwide scientific and technical research; to market their products; and to make contact with potential investors, partners, and suppliers as well as customers. Remote learning over Wide Area Networks offers a cost-effective way for these Russian enterprises to realize their considerable potential in a market-oriented economy. And some of these firms can profitably produce the equipment and services neces sary to build a Russia-wide electronic distance education system. Such a system can produce educational services for the domestic market, import education services where appropriate, and participate in a growing export market.