What makes studying online different from face-to-face study is that it uses the internet as the primary means of communication . Learning is often organised through a virtual learning environment (VLE) . This provides discussion areas and links to readings and other resources as well as letting students submit assignments electronically and take quizzes online .

Online courses are often collaborative with students posting messages for each other to read and working together to construct knowledge . As a result, students in virtual classrooms develop a sense of being part of an online community and feel much less isolated than they might in traditional distance courses .

The teacher's role is to set appropriate tasks, to moderate discussions and to provide feedback . Teachers may also conduct online tutorials .