This document is intended as a template for individuals initiating and developing adult education distance learning programs. The introduction discusses the following issues: benefits of distance learning; flexibility; confidentiality; retention; and the best students to target. The template and supplementary materials are organized in five sections devoted to the following topics: intake; assessment; instructor training; public relations; and curriculum. The following sample materials and forms are among those provided: intake procedure summary; detailed discussion of the intake process; home-based adult education information questionnaire; sample writing assignment; list of resources about learning styles and multiple intelligences; discussion of the role of assessment in home-based programs and assessment for placement and diagnosis; guidelines for portfolio assessment; sample learning contracts; sample writing progress checklists; course outline, learning activities, and handouts for a distance learning training session for General Educational Development (GED)/adult basic education (ABE) instructors; sample press releases; information letter for potential students; sample form detailing program admission requirements; sample follow-up form letters; tip sheets to accompany a GED practice test packet; list and discussion of criteria for choosing curricula for GED and ABE programs; list of sources for distance learning adult education materials; and list of Virginia Adult Education Learning Workgroup contacts. (MN)