For instance, dealing with social issues violence or water use. Acceptance differs from one country to another. Some are enthusiastic, others resistant. Difficult distances a factor. In the north, many areas are remote and have harsh winters.
Northern countries are more accustomed to working in small groups.
In Thailand, distance learning is popular because there is no alternative. Thailand has poor infrastructure and few local institutions. Distance learning is tool to help developing countries to catch up. It is an enormous good for society, but expensive. Education is a public good so the public should subsidize education.