This document provides an overview of the current literature on distance education. A historical perspective and definitions associated with distance education are presented in the first section. The following theories are also discussed: independence and autonomy; industrialization of teaching; and interaction and communication. A synthesis of existing theories and a theoretical framework for distance education is also offered. A review of the research on distance students and distance education systems is highlighted in the second section. Operational issues are examined in the third section: management and administration; personnel; programming; and facilities. Summaries and references are included at the end of each section. Contains 357 references. (AEF)