Lack of face-to-face interaction. Even today, computing devices – PCs, smartphones, tablets, etc. – are designed for individual use. Although social networking has eroded some of the boundaries between people online, use of computers and similar equipment is still an individual pursuit. There are a number of essential social and collaborative skills that are inherently learnt in a classroom, and when working in groups. These skills are not only essential to everyday life, they are crucial in the workplace, where complex working relationships often exist, and persons are regularly required to work in ad hoc or established groups to achieve desired outcomes.

The risk of isolation and stunted social development. Coupled with the previous point, the absence of face-to-face interaction does lead to some degree of isolation, which, for students, could undermine the entire learning process. Over the last 10 years or so, the link between the Internet and social isolation has received wide debate. Some of the findings suggest that the medium can provide a platform for building new relationships, especially among the middle-aged population, who otherwise might be isolated. However, the risk of stunted social development is of a particular concern with today’s children

Costs. Across the world, the cost of quality education, at all levels of the education system, is high. Although Governments across the region readily acknowledge the importance of education, frequently they end up cutting the budget for this sector in order to make ends meet. However, key initiatives currently being implemented across most Caribbean countries, are expanding Internet access to schools and providing students with low cost computers (laptops).

Technology dependent: learners will need access to a machine of minimum specification as dictated by the e-learning supplier or access to a service with a high bandwidth to transfer the course materials in a timely way. 

Material Incompatibility: some materials designed for one particular system will not function properly on another (for example, the Apple Macintosh and the Windows PC). Standards will help in the area.

Social/economic disadvantage: can limit or prevent access by some student groups (for example, cost of equipment, online access and printing).

Too Reliant on IT Skills: learners may have limited IT skills, or be uncomfortable with electronic communication and need to learn how to use the medium effectively.

Inflexible: Flexibility may be lost as adjustments to the course in response to student reaction are not easy to make once the course is underway.