Michael Moore?s law of transactional distance predicts an inverse relationship between dialogue and structure in any educational transaction. The greater the dialogue, the lesser the structure and vice versa. This paper describes the theoretical underpinnings of types of virtual learning environment that in some senses break this law by generating structure through dialogue. Such systems might thus cater simultaneously for diametrically different types of learner as well as possess the ability to adapt closely to the needs of groups of learners. Three examples of such environments are described and opportunities for further developments in this field are explored.