Since March 1983, the University of the West Indies has been conducting a distance teaching experiment that links its three campuses and the Extra Mural Centres in Antigua, Dominica, and St. Lucia by telecommunications. The network is used for interactive distance teaching and other types of teleconferences. A variety of modern audio and video equipment is used in the program, including Pulsecom telephone termination equipment, teleconferencing equipment, telephone handsets, scramblers (to ensure confidentiality), slow-scan television, videocassette recording and playback facilities, and telewriters. Traditional print instructional materials (booklets and charts) are also used. Courses are primarily developed by their presenters, although consultants and researchers provide assistance when necessary. The program does not insist that teachers confine themselves to a single teaching method; however, the guiding principle of the program is that maximum use be made of the program's interactive potential. It is thus suggested that teachers avoid talking for more than 10-15 minutes without a break for discussions. The following types of programs are offered: administration, outreach programs, intercampus assistance for undergraduate programs, training of science technicians, agriculture, health, social sciences and law, and education. The outreach programs have included an arts symposium and a series on Caribbean art forms. Response to the program has been very encouraging, and it is hoped that the program will be expanded to serve more of the region's 14 countries (6 are currently served). (MN)