2. Synchronous and asynchronous interaction
The Internet, computers, tablets and other electronic devices serve as a meeting point for online learners who may even not know each other or may never have opportunity to meet each other. However, thanks to their shared interests (understanding and mastery of the course contents), these learners form a community for mutual learning and support. Participation in an online learning community may be 1) synchronous (when learners meet in a virtual chat room and discuss at the same time such as in a live chat) or 2) asynchronous (when each learner contribute to the discussion at her/his own convenient time, such as in an online course forum discussion).
Online learners may experience the feeling of isolation. However, learning together, as part of synchronous or asynchronous online learning community, and knowing that other learners (peers) face the same challenge and difficulties, often increases motivation in online learning. As online learners get used to this learning mode, they appreciate advantages online learning offers such as free time management, independence of time and place as well as self-direction in learning.