This type of learning began in the late 1990s with the introduction of the Internet. John Murphy, Senior Vice President for Institutional Affairs for the Apollo Group, said, "Advancements not only in technology, but in the sciences of instruction and curriculum development along with assessment, have made online instruction a desirable and efficient alternative."
This type of classroom allows a wider variety of students to participate. This includes military personnel, full-time employees, home-bound individuals and people living overseas.
Most universities now offer virtual classrooms and many completely-online programs. Some colleges and universities don't even have a physical location--all interactions are done virtually, such as at the University of Phoenix. Classes may last anywhere from a typical 16-week semester to an hour-long seminar.