For some purposes, for some people, participating via telecommunications is entirely adequate. For some purposes, for some people, participating via telecommunications is preferable. Those faculty who fear being replaced by some combination of video recording, CD-ROM, Web Page, books, etc. In the last few years, information technology has been providing a rapidly increasing variety of options for enhancing or changing each. New dimensions have been added to the possibilities for asynchronous communication and for more interactive independent learning.
New tools can enhance the depth and variety of interaction possible among people in the same room.
I've also added 4 of my own that focus more on teaching, learning, and technology.