This study explores a wide variety of technical alternatives, from equipment needs and on-the-ground system design, to equipment operation and suggested applications for department activities, both now and in the future. Some suggested alternatives include (1) communication satellites, (2) one way audio transmission, (3) one and two way hard copy transfer, (4) two way audio delivery network, (5) data transfer, and (6) video. Each alternative is discussed and diagrammed to serve as a primer for the Alaskan educator unfamiliar with the technology of telecommunications. Appendices present a summary of systems requirements, a summary of implementation possibilities, a simplified glossary of common telecommunication terms, and a summary of system requirements in the areas of required satellite capacity, program source, equipment, operator training, support staff, systems stability, equipment placement, and flexibility of use. A bibliography is included. (JEG)