Telecommunications | Telecommunications Networks
T322 | 20718 | Forkner, T.

T322 Class Number 10744

Terry R. Forkner


Understand the development of telephone telecommunications.  Be able
to describe historical issues with regard to economic, social,
political, and technological perspectives.  Be able to describe
specific events surrounding the rapidly changing telecommunications
industry and discuss the impact of those events.  Be able to
describe the current status of the industry, the impact the industry
has on society, and possible future directions the industry may
take.  Be able to describe the functional components of the
telephone system, their operational characteristics, and how
technology issues affect the policy process, both directly and

This course is presented in a lecture/discussion format.
Students are given assigned readings each week that are targeted at
the developments in a particular time period.  The associated
lectures are aimed at creating a comprehensive understanding of the
issues and their relationships.  Lectures are designed to encourage
active discussion by students.

Project 1       5 %
Project 2      20 %
Mid-term       25 %
Final exam     25 %
Participation  25 %

Exams are designed to enable the student to demonstrate a command of
the major issues through essay and short answer.  Project 1 is a
small group discussion and presentation assignment.  Project 2 is a
10-page research paper on a telephony-related topic of your choice.
Emphasis on participation is designed to encourage attendance
and "active" learning.

Introduction to Telephones and Telephone Systems, Noll Telephone -
The First 100 Years, Brooks

Tuesdays       2:30 p.m.  -  5:15 p.m.

This course counts toward Social and Historical Studies distribution
not, also count toward other degree requirements. For more
information about which requirements this course could fulfill see
the College of Arts and Sciences Bulletin at If you have
questions, or need additional help, see your academic advisor.