This paper examines the positive and negative effects of online learning in creating an effective virtual learning community, based on communication, cooperation and equality. On the basis of a project called "online support for language and cultural studies for refugees and foreigners in the Czech Republic", tested in a pilot run in the fourth quarter of 2003, the author suggests some observations relating to her personal experience with building a virtual learning and social community in refugee (foreigner) education. Finally, the author discusses the challenge of implementing online forms of education into traditionally face-to-face language education for refugees, asylum seekers, and people who have been granted asylum in the Czech Republic