This volume, the first of three produced by a study group of experts from Australia, India, Indonesia, Maldives, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, reviews their experiences in developing distance learning materials. Each country's experience is discussed in the context of problems it faced with special reference to materials relevant to teacher education. Problems and issues related to the specific educational and general developmental concerns of the different countries are also explored. A synopsis of possible national follow-up activities is presented for five areas: training; production and preparation of materials; dissemination of materials; extension; and research. Suggestions for further distance learning activities at the regional level relate to improvement of distance educators' access to regional training opportunities; examples of distance learning materials produced within the region; and a specialist association for distance educators. Appendices include an agenda, a list of participants, a list of working documents, and the keynote address. (LMM)