But access is a requirement for netcourses, making available a large number of other options that have the potential to transform the learning experience. All the rich resources of the Internet data, images, references, current events, expertise can be utilized. Students can collect data and publish their results. Teachers can create gaming simulations. Netcourses assume all students have comparable computer software, so shared graphics, music-generating software, or hypertext authoring software can be used.
Personal communication is far richer than electronic communication.
Responses are immediate, non-verbal cues enhance communication, and group dynamics become an important part of the message. Learning often requires taking risks, and personal communication can be used to reduce the risk and avoid misunderstanding. Labs and real-life investigations are an important part of learning, but they are harder to arrange for a single learner at the end of a wire. To date, the most successful netcourses have found ways of avoiding or ameliorating these shortcomings. Our Hands On Physics project specifically addresses the laboratory question by integrating into the netcourse safe, low-cost kits with detailed instructions.