An overview of issues in the utilization of computer assisted instruction (CAI) in higher education, this document provides (1) a rationale for utilizing CAI; (2) the identification of administrative, faculty, and computer center support required to launch and sustain a CAI effort; (3) an analysis of cost effectiveness issues related to CAI; and (4) speculation about the future of CAI, including a discussion of the possible relationship between CAI and the videodisc. Appended are questions which should be asked when getting started with CAI. (Author/STS)