Arguing that the systematic application of knowledge about instruction to videodisc technology is essential if the full potential of this medium is to be realized, this paper begins by discussing the need for intelligent videodisc technology in our educational system. A brief review of the state of the art in intelligent videodisc systems, which describes their capabilities and limitations, is followed by a similar review of some aspects of instructional theory that have implications for the design of hardware, software, and courseware for such systems. Some of the problems inhibiting the introduction of videodisc into education are then discussed with emphasis on the lack of sufficient high-quality courseware. Finally, a section on new horizons suggests solutions to these inhibiting factors under the rubrics of general recommendations and recommendations for making better use of present knowledge, for the design of hardware and software, and for the development of instructional models and theories for videodisc systems. A 13-item reference list is provided. (RP)