Usually people doubt about the efficiency of online learning because the lack of human element in the learning process. Actually, a well-designed online course might overcome these drawbacks. The better courses will bring together cognitive and behavioral approaches to motivate the learners, especially in the distant education.

There is a great analysis in details for the more effective learning strategies to build better online courses by E-Learning Queen.

In fact, to make the courses and the learning better off, you must do more things than the strategies: the thorough understanding of the learners, and the empowerment of technologies environments. Social networking, collaborative information building and informal learning tools - Those modern technologies will help you a lot. Just try more to engage more.

Useful Resources:
Online Training Needs Assessments: How to Measure Learning Performance Effortlessly
http://www.sameshow.com/quiz-creator/quiz-training-assessment.html