Online learning is a broad term relating to using the Internet and Internet technologies to facilitate online learning. There are many options available that support online learning ranging from email correspondence to full featured system like the Night Owl system.  Online learning is also often referred to as elearning or web based training.

A more complete overview is available from the elearning entry on Wikipedia.

Traits of an online learning system

An online learning system can provide some or all of the following depending on the needs of the learner

• Ability to access resources online and in a meaningful learning sequence
  
• User administration functions such as tracking learner progress and learner details etc.
• Assessment mechanism e.g. Assessment is downloaded or emailed or the learner makes use of a specially designed assessment system
• Collaboration tools providing feedback and support such as text messaging or email
  
• Ability to manage online resources
  
• Ability to allow students to enrol and pay online
• Accessible to students with disabilities
• Ability to integrate with other business systems

How can it fit in with what I am doing now?

There is no need to suddenly make drastic changes to your training just because you want to take advantage of some of the benefits of using an online learning system. You may have one unit of competency that is very suitable for online delivery. Learners could complete that one unit online but still complete the rest of the units making up a qualification or course in a classroom or workplace environment.