Online classes may be the only delivery system available to these place bound students. The time-bound student also benefits. They may work variable shifts, or their travel time requires long workdays. Meeting a regularly scheduled class time may be impossible. The availability of computers and modems in households means more people have the technical capability.
Students receive a taste of college class work without having to actually attend class.
It can 'hook' some students into taking other online classes. This creates a wider available student base for your local college. I only needed a couple more courses to complete my degree. I have a family, a job, a life, and it was hard for me to get to the campus. This fit my lifestyle perfectly, and I completed my degree.