Carefully designed Internet courses can enhance interactivity between instructors and learners and among learners, which is a serious limitation of some DL formats. As with any medium, there are disadvantages. Reliance on learner initiative can be a drawback for those who prefer more structure. Learner success also depends on technical skills in computer operation and Internet navigation, as well as the ability to cope with technical difficulties. Access to the Internet is still a problem for some rural areas and people with disabilities.
Social isolation can be a drawback, and the lack of nonverbal cues can hinder communication.
The next section takes a closer look at distance learning processes. Lack of nonverbal cues can create misunderstanding, but communications protocols can be established and relationships among learners developed. Online courses often feature consensus building and group projects, through which learners can develop skills in collaborating with distant colleagues and cooperating with diverse individuals. If community is defined as shared interests, not geographic space, electronic communities are possible. To help learners make effective use of distance learning methods, skilled facilitation is essential.