Intended for trainers who have little knowledge of information technology (IT) and its use in education and training, this information sheet describes IT as consisting of three elements--information handling, communications technology, and information transformation--and explains how these elements contribute to the conveying of information. To illustrate the growth of IT, examples are given of the enhancement of older methods of communication; e.g., the videocassette has become the interactive video system, and the telephone has been adapted for use in teleconferencing in distance education. Systems that are used to provide information directories, known as teletext and viewdata, are explained. A basic outline is provided of the various components of a computer system and how they are used to accomplish the following: order and store information for libraries (i.e., databases); send, store, and receive information (i.e., electronic mail); store and process information (i.e., word processing); and aid in the development of problem-solving and decision-making skills. The development of the microprocessor is defined in terms of input/output, hardware, and data, and how these components work together is described. A glossary of terms and an annotated guide to resources on IT conclude this report. Resources listed are divided into sources of advice, information, and training, which include organizations, projects, services, associations, information centers, and video programs; books, both on IT in general and on specific types of IT; and journals. (DJR)