This report discusses issues related to distance learning in higher education. Section 1, "The Expanding Universe of Distance Learning," examines: data from a new national survey on higher education distance learning; Internet access in elementary and secondary schools; the 1999 national survey of information technology in higher education; expanding partnerships in distance education; online teacher education; the Pew Charitable Trusts grant program for course redesign; and secondary school online developments. Section 2, "Policy Issues Affecting Distance Learning," discusses: the American Association of University Professors policies on distance education and intellectual property; security and privacy; and iCopyright.com launches automated copyright permission process. Section 3, "Virtual Universities," describes three virtual universities in the United States. Section 4, "Update of Governmental Activities," focuses on: the Federal Trade Commission addresses privacy concerns; the emerging role of the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers; Copyright Office issues guidelines for distance education; and activities of the U.S. Department of Education (Distance Education Demonstration Program and Learning Anytime Anywhere Partnership grants). (SM)