This paper focuses on metadata standards for networked information discovery and retrieval of educational resources. Such standards, if they achieve a high degree of interoperability, will support both extant and emergent e-learning architectures. This paper takes an historical perspective on the formative work of the Dublin Core Metadata Initiative Education Working Group and explores issues remaining for future resolution. The paper also examines the relationship between Dublin Core Metadata Initiative and the IEEE Learning Technologies Standards Committee Learning Object Metadata Working Group.