Types of alternative educational delivery systems, programming that can be used with these systems, and operational requirements for implementing the systems are considered. Six categories of delivery systems are described: broadcast delivery systems, copy delivery systems, print delivery systems, computer delivery systems, telephone delivery, and satellite delivery systems. Copy delivery systems are those that deliver programs in the form of tapes, discs, or cassettes, and these systems include videocassette, videodisc, and audiocassette. Two major forms of print delivery systems are correspondence courses and courses by newspaper. Additionally, computer managed instruction and computer assisted instruction, and various applications for broadcast television and radio are described. Important considerations in selecting an alternative system include the target audience, the nature of the course content, the cost, and the availability of software or courses to meet identified needs. Points to consider when previewing courseware for use via an alternative delivery system include: the local need or demand, the interest level of the media component; course design and learner objectives; the flexibility of course materials; and whether the materials encourage active participation by the student. Operational support is probably the most overlooked and underrated factor in implementing alternative delivery systems. Students enrolled in alternative delivery courses and faculty teaching these courses require much more than do teachers and students in the classroom. Support functions might include using a microcomputer to do course evaluations and test scoring. (SW)