First-generation Distance Education (DE) was characterized by the use of a single technology (correspondence instruction) and lack of direct interaction between students and teachers. In second-generation DE, integrated multiple media permitted two-way communication between students and tutors, but not between students and the originators of learning materials. Thanks to technological advances, students in third-generation DE programs can engage in direct two-way communication with the teachers originating the instruction and, in many cases, they can also communicate directly with other students. The five most important media in education are as follows: human media, text or print (including still graphics), audio, television, and computing. All five media may be used in various one- and two-way technology applications in DE. When deciding which media and technologies to combine, DE program providers must consider the following issues: each technology's accessibility for learners and flexibility for the target group; each technology's cost structure and per-learner cost; the best technologies for supporting the types of learning and instructional approaches required; organizational requirements and barriers to be removed; each technology's novelty; and the speed with which courses using each technology can be mounted and revised. Widening access to education is the main consideration when selecting technology for DE. (MN)