Networking globally

A quicker and more in-depth exchange of information will be available in the 21st century, thanks to a collaboration among the IUPUI campus, Indiana University and a pair of high-tech research networks.

IUPUI is the new location of network operating centers (NOC) for the Abilene Project and the Asia Pacific Advanced Network Consortium.

The Abilene Project, or Internet2, is the most advanced research and education network in the United States, and is an integral part of the anticipated growth of distance learning, telemedicine and digital libraries in higher education. The Asia Pacific Advanced Network Consortium (TransPac) will link American research universities with counterparts in the Asia Pacific.

"Developments such as the Abilene Project and TransPac reflect partnerships among business, government and the university to help Hoosier students of all ages, and to gain an advantage for Indiana in the increasingly competitive digital technology world," said IUPUI Chancellor Gerald L. Bepko.

Already 37 colleges and universities across the country are part of the network. The original Internet's free flow of research and education information reshaped curriculum and textbooks throughout the world. And, said Bepko, new technological changes, such as Internet2 and TransPac, offer the opportunity "to accelerate the changing paradigm for teaching."