Traditionally, research papers have been published in paper journals. Though there has been a strong movement toward other technologies in recent years, the printed journal still offers a highly credible and universally respected avenue of presentation. Other traditional presentation methods include presenting results at conferences and informal circulation of prepublication results by mail or other physical transport. Newer technologies have probably had their largest impact as a replacement for informal circulation, with papers being sent by email or posted on the Web rather than being circulated as physical paper copies. Nevertheless, given that printed journals are very expensive and growing more so by the year, many academics are beginning to look at alternative presentation technologies. If these technologies can gain the same status as printed journals the paper journal may eventually become a thing of the past.  See Burbules and Bruce, "This is Not a Paper" for some discussion of these issues.