Katrina A. Meyer's article contains conclusions drawn from her review of studies of online learning. What writing teachers will find most significant, although not surprising, is the following:

There is also ample evidence from a variety of sources that suggests having students work online improves writing skills. Wegerif's (1998) study found that the ALN model improved writing skills by having students write more and more often, as well as by increasing the public visibility of student writing. (It is there for others - especially their peers - to see and, presumably, critique.) (3rd page).