There is an interesting article in the NY Times about Technology in the classroom (cell phones, IM etc.). Considering that the current generation is "so distracted" maybe it makes sense to go in for Distance Learning! The fact that students are forced to sit in a class might be the cause for distractions. When you are out there in front of the computer with no "real" physical class in front of you, perhaps the focus would be a lot better?

Another very interesting mention in the article.