Focusing on online learning opportunities in higher education, this paper reviews the various tools of virtual learning and electronic synchronous and asynchronous communication, discusses their strengths and weaknesses, presents strategies for their best use, and warns against potential pitfalls. Implementation issues, including cost and training requirements, are also discussed. An overview of Internet access and synchronous and asynchronous communication modes is provided. The following virtual learning tools are then described: World Wide Web pages, electronic mail, newsgroups, chat rooms, and videoconferencing. The paper concludes that the main challenge associated with virtual learning environments is to overcome the tendency to replicate traditional classroom practices in the virtual environment and to establish a more learner-centered curriculum. Four figures illustrate the Netscape Internet browser, Eudora Pro electronic mail software, newsgroups at Pepperdine University (California), and virtual meeting rooms. (AEF)