Most participants indicated high satisfaction with the broadcasts and attendance at the satellite schools has been maintained. Discussion Teaching via satellite has permitted information transfer to many producers in states and locations previously too distant to reach with traditional programs. Dialogue between audiences of diverse regional and social backgrounds enhances the educational benefit of the program. The major advantages to the specialists' program is the dramatic reduction in travel time and direct travel costs. Somewhat less planning time is required than was needed for a dozen presentations, but earlier detailed planning is required as the specialist must coordinate studio time with the schedules of many individuals.
Agents spend less time than they did when arranging the specialist visits.
As this broadcast fits a historic time frame and audience, local hosts have not expressed the common complaint that they learn of a satellite program too late for them to alert the intended audience. Some agents have found value in getting the videotapes and developing an outline of information in the broadcast for use by those unable to attend. How best to cover direct costs of satellite teaching is still evolving. Summary Substituting a satellite broadcast for the physical presence of specialists at regional seminars has been valued by many learners and specialists. Savings in overall travel costs and planning time, and the ability to reach wider audiences with a greater array of speakers and media are among major benefits identified.