This document discusses the history and development of e-learning and online professional development for educators. It traces the origins of distance education back to the 18th century and highlights universities like the University of London that began offering distance learning degrees in the 1800s. The development of the internet allowed for the rise of the first fully online university in 1996. Research found that online professional development can improve student outcomes when delivered as a coordinated series over time. Challenges in developing online professional development included ensuring it meets individual needs as well as providing collaboration and active learning opportunities for teachers.