What is the Future of Distance Learning?

I've been working on an article that I'm writing for T.H.E. Journal. The article's theme is the future of distance learning. There seems to be some tension between synchronous learning and asynchronous learning. I'm wondering how you think about the relationship between these two types of learning? What is the best example of blended learning that you can think of?

Consider asking students how they think that people will learn in the future. Will they read books? What will books look like? Will they write papers? Why might somebody write a paper even when so much can be voice recorded?