In Virginia, distance learning means the "Electronic Classroom," which is a distance education program of two-way audio and one-way video broadcast transmission of instruction from Varina High School (since September 1984) and Wise Vocational-Technical School (since September 1987). Each distance learning receive classroom is equipped with a television set, a videocassette recorder/player, a programmable telephone, and, in pilot schools only, facsimile equipment. These classrooms provide access to courses in advanced placement calculus, advanced placement English and composition, and Latin I and Latin II (in central Virginia). Many of the costs for the program are borne by the State Department of Education, and it serves 56 schools in 30 school divisions. In 1989-90, the program will be offered via satellite, and currently a pilot project is underway involving schools that are unable to receive the public broadcast signal. Recent legislative action will provide state funding for both satellite receipt systems for all secondary schools and statewide implementation of the Electronic Classroom program. A task force has been working on a 5-year plan for technology since October 1987, and pilot projects involving the Electronic Classroom for instruction on Japanese culture and reading comprehension have been completed. (EW)