In terms of the learner, adequate contact and interaction with the instructor, tutors, and fellow students is crucial. The internet provides the opportunity for the interaction necessary, and is easily accessible. However, it is important to consider that the learner must possess a certain level of computer skills in order to take the course. Some are more demanding than others, so there may be skills that are pre-requisites, such as being able to upload, download, and unstuff compressed files, etc. For those who are not familiar with these applications, the course could present quite a challenge.
Cost is of course always a major consideration when choosing a course.
Because on-line learning allows for such flexibility, there are also savings in time, materials, childcare, and travel costs. Bates looks at key features of different technologies when considering which to choose. The criteria for choosing however, remains the same. Bates recommends that options such as colour text, diagram, picture, and concentrated text capabilities be considered, as well as the cost involved with each. The other aspects are interactivity, the ability to handle either concrete or abstract knowledge, and how well they support androgogical learning.