This study assesses research findings and practical field experiences emerging from electronic text trials and services with emphasis on applications of electronic text that have served the needs of higher education. However, research findings and case studies from commercial applications, as well as secondary and K-8 electronic text projects, are included to provide a broad context for understanding how electronic text is developing. The report focuses on experiences in the United States, particularly those of public broadcasting stations. For comparative purposes, applications in Britain and Canada are reviewed, as well as selected research findings and policy issues that have emerged from trials in France and Sweden. Following an overview of the report in section 1, section 2 provides a glossary of terms to be used and reviews some of the strengths and weaknesses associated with alternative means of transmitting electronic text. Section 3 reviews educational applications in Britain, Canada, and the United States. Research findings are analyzed, the costs of low and high end systems are outlined, and page design and organizational issues are discussed. Section 4 reviews selected commercial applications in Europe and the United States. Section 5 outlines the educational context in which electronic text must develop, including current patterns of use for telecommunications and organizational barriers. The report concludes with a discussion of gaps in knowledge and general options for higher education institutions and those who provide services for the education community. A selected bibliography is included. (THC)