Abstract
Abstract: The notion of an online course implies that students and teachers are separate and that there is a feeling of remoteness. Isolation and lack of perceived community have been noted as influences on retention in courses and ultimately on student success. Postgraduate nursing students more than likely attempt to combine families and work commitments with study, thereby increasing the risk of disengagement. Educators responsible for online courses need to be able to provide a learning design that will motivate and connect students, increasing their chance of success.