Requires client software. WebCT provides UNIX based Course Tools for non-programmers to build sophisticated web courses. Blackboard provides FREE class management support for 1 to 3 classes semester long classes. TLM is The Learning Manager Online Communities with Discussion Forums, Chat, etc. The Palace has a 3D graphical chat environment, very user-friendly, and inexpensive.
Students love it.
Delphi provides free discussion forums and chat which can be both public or private.