Compact disc technology facilitates the distribution of course material much like traditional correspondence courses but at a fraction of the weight. Experts agree that, as a teaching and learning method, online education is still in its infancy and is giving participants all the surprises, uncertainties and pride experienced by new parents. How organizations address the issue now will determine if this new arrival on the pedagogical scene will grow into a strong contender for corporate training dollars. The elements of a classroom will play a key role in how online education matures. Like the traditional setting, the virtual learning environment includes teachers, students and course material.
Online instruction resembles the traditional educational process in another way.
Both involve asynchronous and synchronous components. Standard learning environments operate in the asynchronous mode when teachers deliver lectures or students read assigned textbook material on their own time. The synchronous component occurs during discussion periods when teachers answer students' questions or class participants break off into smaller groups to talk about the material. In the cyberenvironment, asynchronous activities include reading or listening to lecture material. Assignments also are generally worked on independently.