For active independent self directed learners, a series of good books could replace the conventional classroom. Two-way telephone contact is sufficient. An LSU study in the 1980's confirmed that students prefer audio-graphic lectures to a well produced videotaped course with the same basic content. They prefer a high level of interaction and personal contact with their teachers. No one asks how good books can improve schools yet the book is the most widely used form of distance education.
Distance education can improve schools the same way that access to good books can improve education.
These media are not good enough for the unprepared, undisciplined, student. Generally, these modes of instruction only work with those who take responsibility for their own learning. Clearly every effort should be made to develop self-directed learners, however, but we should not presume that everyone has the associated value system and skills to learn on their own. I think that an interactive computer program could be developed that would allow a history teacher to teach an advanced math class or a mother to teach beginning reading to her child. Until such programs are developed, the best alternative is a qualified teacher presenting over a highly interactive medium.