A Heterogeneous Distributed Database System for Distance Education Networks

The exponential increase in the amount of information available makes the development of efficient information access systems essential. A heterogeneous distributed database system (HDDS) is an interconnected collection of logically related databases. Recent advances in database design, particularly the introduction of HDDSs, can offer distance education networks viable, simple, cost-effective and efficient database access systems. Telecommunications users are becoming more and more sophisticated, demanding interoperability in a flexible, user-friendly environment. The World Wide Web, Gopher, WAIS, and other Internet navigation tools are making access less difficult. Although implementing a heterogeneous distributed database system may add complexity, it would be consistent with present developments while providing a more efficient service to the students, teachers, researchers, and administrators who are using distance education networks. Implementing a HDDS can be an efficient way to manage the coordination of individual systems to provide up-to-date, easily accessible information on available courses, course design, registration procedures, hardware and software use and availability, library resources, and other topics of interest to those in the field of distance education.