Continuing education for physicians and other health professionals is considered a necessity. One of the methods that physicians could select for their continuing education is the use of self-learning materials (SLM) such as audiotapes, videotapes, slides, television, videodiscs, and computers in the home. A survey taken by the World Health Organization (WHO) in Europe (through interviews with experts, by invited papers, as well as through a mailed questionnaire to England) showed that doctors approve of the concept of SLM although they seem to prefer small-group learning experiences and reading books and journals. The study concluded that SLM could be made more attractive for continuing education if their methods were updated so that they used the latest technology and up-to-date teaching methods, if they were readily available, and if physicians understood that their use could augment rather than supplant small-group learning techniques. WHO recommends that greater thought be given to preparation of SLM and to their promotion in convincing health professionals of their desirability. (KC)