Indeed, there seems to be a division of labor now between H-NET discussion lists and electronic journals on the one hand and print journals on the other. However, if we fully utilize computer-related technology, we may publish not only articles and reviews but also responses to and comments on the articles with incredible speed and volume. It would get scholars engaged in more thorough discussion and deepen their understanding. In other words, H-NET and electronic journals could expect a bright future. Our biggest challenge is how to enhance their quality and how to acquire academic credibility for them.
Most universities now have computer rooms and some have established local area networks on campuses.
Since personal computers have decreased their retail prices dramatically, a substantial number of scholars now possess their own computers in their offices. They are very curious about Internet. The problem is that they do not know what the Internet and discussion lists can do, how they can participate in the lists, and how the information super highway may benefit their research and education. What we need now is education. H-NET delegates came to Japan last year to hold a workshop in Osaka and Tokyo in cooperation with the OUFS and Waseda University.