... especially as we are discussing virtual classroom tools and virtual environments (e.g., Second Life) - is: Why did we come ... virtual conversations, it still isn't quite the same thing as being there. As an aside, I personally question that view ... doing it via online. Online you will have an incredibly realistic experience (think how good virtual actors are these days ... electronic-only contact. In Las Vegas (at ASTD TechKnowledge), I met up with bloggers who I really only knew online.