What factors have prevented the widespread educational application of the broad spectrum of communication technologies that have exerted such a profound influence on other segments of our society? Is the greater use of technology in education indeed desirable? This study addresses itself to these and other questions. The basic premise is that technology is a means to an end and that any consideration of the issues raised by the existence of this resource must start with the problems and needs of our educational system. The focus of this book is on the political, social, and technical forces that bear on the development of educational technology, and on how educational technology can be shaped to meet the changing needs and expectations of society. Issues and public policies are analyzed, together with suggested courses of action to help form a basis for making technology a more responsive and effective tool of education. (WCM)