Students' initial perceptions of distance learning were assessed. The STAR SCHOOLS program, an initiative to promote the use of telecommunications in education and distance learning, funded the Alabama STAR SCHOOLS Program through the University of Alabama (Birmingham). Twelve satellite courses produced by Oklahoma State University were delivered to 75 seniors (93% were black students and 7% were white students) at three high schools (two inner city schools and one high school in a predominantly black city adjacent to Birmingham). Courses were advanced placement and college-level academic courses delivered with one-way video and two-way audio. A survey was designed to assess initial student perceptions of the use of this medium in their education. Most students had enrolled because they wanted to learn what a college course was like. Eighty-five percent said they would recommend the satellite course to others. Most looked forward to college work and thought that they had gained new skills. There was some criticism of the televised instructor's presentation, but most found the coordinating instructor (i.e., the teacher present at the receiving site) very helpful. Most reported a greater sense of personal responsibility and higher self-confidence as a result of taking the course. Six tables and the survey form are included. (SLD)