Information technology is very evident in the explosion of on-line education courses. This research looks at online courses, identifies significant issues in the development of these courses, and determines characteristics of learners enrolled in these courses. An emerging phenomenon is investigated and issues inherent in the development of a new educational paradigm are explored. Using a case study methodology, relevant data, perceptions, and descriptions of major issues surrounding these courses are gathered from students and course developers. The main case study looks at an online professional development course, "Telecommunications and Information Access for Educators," which explores information technologies through electronic mail, computer teleconferencing, and remote database searching. Correspondence was archived, electronic mail was stored on disk, field notes were compiled, electronic participant observations were completed, and formal and informal interviews were conducted for over 95 students. Through a literature review and interviews with course developers, educators, or students who have taught or taken online courses, information was gathered on issues of design, instruction, and support. Other types of online courses are investigated. Through these investigations pedagogical, organizational, and institutional issues are identified to consider in the design, development, and implementation. Recommendations for teachers and learners considering online education courses are given and a research agenda is proposed. (Contains eight references.) (Author/MAS)