The advent of many new technologies to make access to education and open learning more and more possible requires parallel developments in instruction to support and serve the student better. There are three aspects of student support: pre-enrollment, tutorial services, and counseling and advising services. However, the developments in technology intruding in the Open Learning arena transform the nature and form of these mediation services. A central concern throughout the learning process must remain the learner, and in Open Learning students must be carefully prepared for the independence they will acquire. Though technology is a vital link, many new formats require end-user hardware not likely to be available in the average home for several years. While Open Learning provides opportunity for a mass audience, it often involves the student learning in isolation as an independent learner. Use of extensive technology requires carefully developed and thoroughly evaluated standard systems designed in line with sound instructional principles. While the benefits of educational technology are accepted, it is noted that the new learning is rarely individualized, and the subject matter and sequencing of study are likely to be almost entirely controlled by the institution providing the technology. It is argued, therefore, that these changing relationships, together with issues of access to the appropriate technology, have the potential to create a new form of disadvantaged student. (Contains 10 references.) (JB)