This document discusses communities of practice (CoPs) and how they can help address challenges in distance learning programs. It notes that social learning is based on human interactions and CoPs use an apprenticeship model of mentorship. It identifies barriers for both students, such as costs and isolation, and staff, including lack of technological experience. The document argues that CoPs can help by providing teacher professional development through meaningful online learning environments. It emphasizes that technologies like web 2.0 can bridge people's learning when used to facilitate communication and community in virtual learning environments.