Students are surprised at the interactivity of most online courses, yet the socialization and activity is always at a time of the student's choice. Students and instructors share pride of ownership. Students help create the information base and continually provide the subject matter for the course. Because of the nature of the course you can also be building individual career portfolios with your online activities. The comfort level goes up.
Students can work at their own pace, at their own best times.
Information is automatically stored in written form. Materials are organized and archived. Personality distractions and conflicts can be minimized. Students have ample time to reflect on the assignments and problems at hand before interacting. There is time for research, reflection, and integration of facts and concepts.