This report summarizes the first of four workshops organized to take advantage of the experience and insights of those already implementing new technologies in the schools. The workshop examined professional development needs and consisted of a one and one-half day conversation with educators and experts working to apply communications technology to the school system. Participants discussed the need to re-examine the basics of professional development, to deal with the anxieties and organizational issues that hinder technology use, and to generate realistic expectations about what technology can accomplish. Limitations and practical difficulties identified included: technology is not that advanced; school systems have already invested in technologies that are diverse and complex; there are significant costs associated with connecting schools to the information highway; and limited attention has been paid to the quality of the materials available. Participants identified several ways the federal government could respond: (1) taking a leadership role in generating public support; (2) sponsoring research concerning both professional development and technology as a teaching tool; (3) supporting demonstrations and models for using technology for professional development; (4) taking a more active role in promoting the use of technology in professional development, including development of training materials and resources; and (5) advancing standards for communications infrastructure. Time was cited as the most common barrier to professional development. The sense conveyed during the workshop was that the professional development community is still redefining its own role and only beginning to understand how technology can be used as a tool to support ways people teach and learn. An appendix lists the workshop participants. (ND)