The variety oftopics in this issue is an indication ofthe growing Information Systems' body of knowledge. There is also an emphasis on teaching using the Internet, but emphasis is still on the basic proficiencies, no matter what the delivery. This issue introduces and expands on new approaches in teaching and assessing learning in Project Management, Telecommunications and eCommerce.
Rob introduces Project Management by managing the course as a project. Project management skills are such an important part ofour students' portfolio and its importance is finally being realized at the graduate level. Is anyone teaching a similar course at the undergraduate level?
Knowing what our students learn always is a question. How do we assess their growth in knowledge? Freeman's concept maps provide some insights into this dilemma. Part ofChan'steam project addresses the ongoing issue ofassessing teams, while at the same time offers a framework for managing the team project.
Ahnost every university is providing some type ofon-line course delivery and/or management system. Some professors use the system as an addition to their traditional courses, while others are using it for a pure distance course. At George Washington University we use the system for both types of delivery, and are in the process of switching systems-similar to all good information technology departrnents©. Abuhamdieh asks the question: What do the students think about this utilization? What does faculty think about it? We as information technology professors may not be overwhehned with the technology, but what about professors from other disciplines?
Grant et al., raise the ever important issue--balancing teaching, research and service. Can professors do it all? Wait; was there any social life included? This concern was also raised in a panel at ICIER and generated a great deal of discussion.
I will be teaching at the Warsaw School of Economics as this issue reaches you. I will be incorporating many ofthe great ideas that have been shared in HER and ICIER, and am sure there will be some interesting comparisons to relay.
Thanks to the reviewers, associate editors, Tom Case and Carol Waller. They make things happen.
Mary J. GrangerReturn to the Table of Contents