In Africa, e-learning programmes can make a huge difference in poorly resourced schools and universities.
English is one area where educators are particularly interested in using information and communication technology (ICT) to help develop students' learning.
In many parts of the continent, there is little opportunity for students to meet English-speaking foreigners.
Universities simply do not have the money to invest in ICT resources
But interactive software can give them this experience.
"There is a big appetite for integrating technology into teaching," says Dr Albert P'Rayan, an instructor at Kigali Institute of Science and Technology in Rwanda. "Teachers and students are eager for access to ICT materials."
A survey of 147 e-learning practitioners from 34 African countries conducted by the University of London backed up Dr P'Rayan's claims.
It found that "the three most significant consequences of introducing e-learning are perceived to be the possibility for higher student motivation, improved student attainment, and increased value of education in the community".
In Hong Kong, educational ICT publisher Clarity English is helping African schools with its language software programmes.
