Some educators are prolific telecommunications users.
However, as administrators of NCIPnet have found, many educators face formidable barriers in attempting to use today's network communications technology and its promise of fast and easy access to curriculum-enriching resources and rich opportunities for professional growth. This article describes the barriers educators face in attempting to use computer-mediated communication to both build and sustain online professional communities. The contents of this article do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Education. For more information about NCIP, contact the authors or visit NCIP's Web site . The authors wish to thank all participants on NCIPnet for their continued contributions.