Learning Technology Seminar in May
Nowadays, learning processes are not limited to those that can be used in a traditional classroom. Teachers in the University have already made use of Web to deliver learning materials and instructions in an innovative way. In a forthcoming seminar on " Innovative Uses of the Web to Enhance Learning", Professor Michael Chang, Department of Information Engineering, and Professor Pingping Fu, Department of Marketing will share their experience on how to achieve excellence in teaching and learning through the Web.

Other seminars on technology for teaching and learning to be held in coming weeks include,

• Streaming Multimedia on the Web - Campus Interactive TV
• Creating Streaming Illustrated Audio Lectures on the Web
• Web Authoring Using Macromedia Dreamweaver
• Introduction to Java Script: What is it? Why use it?
• Web Authoring Using Microsoft FrontPage

More information can be read at http://www.cuhk.edu.hk/itsc/learning/workshops/ .

Checking the Compliance Status of Your Applications Software
There are about 250 days left till Year 2000. At the turn of the millennium, all computer users in the world will face the same danger - their computer systems may not work properly. Are your computer systems tested and ready?

In the last issue of this Digest, we reminded you about the need to test the hardware and the operating system. Here, we would like to remind you to also check the compliance status of your software. We keep a vendors' list of updated information containing the Y2K compliance status of their software. The Centre will ensure the compliance of the software that is available on central facilities. If you are using shareware or freeware products, you could check with the authors or examine the source code to find out the Y2K compliance status of the products. If you are not sure about the status of a shareware product and its use is critical to you, you should think of replacing the product with a commercial one that is Y2K compliant.

Read the Y2K information at http://www.cuhk.edu.hk/y2k

Financial Databases Update
The Data Library Services (DLS) include the provision of some very popular large financial databases including FIDB, BODB, PACAP, CRSP, CDA/Spectrum, IMF and Compustat. These financial databases are subscribed to by the University Library System (ULS). They are licensed for faculty and student access within the university campus network only, unless otherwise specified. These databases are available on our server "Theory". An account application is required.

In recent months, we have upgraded several databases including Compustat1999, CRSP97 (monthly and annually) and PACAP (Japan). More databases will be introduced this summer.

Details can be read at http://www.cuhk.edu.hk/itsc/compenv/datalib/

Preparing For A Departmental Network Upgrade
If you are planning to upgrade or relocate your departmental network, you are invited to first contact the Centre to discuss the matter. We will help you to evaluate your needs and make recommendations on suitable network equipment. We will also provide you with tender information for the appropriate equipment to save your time in choosing the best option.

Please contact the Internet & Network Services Section of the Centre for more information.

Computer Systems and Services Operating Hours during Labour Festival (May 1)
During the coming Labour Festival, all computer systems and services will be operated as usual. Specifically, the User Area at Pi-Chiu Building will remain open 24-hours and the Consultation Room will be open from 9:30am to 4:30pm.

Details of these times can be read on-line at http://www.cuhk.edu.hk/itsc/announce/may99.html