This paper describes the development of a virtual learning environment using a blend of collaborative technologies and human resources to provide US preservice teachers with an authentic experience of another culture. A core design component is the use of "embedded instructors" who are natives of and living in the target country (N. Ireland) while delivering the course in the USA. The wider issue of the potential depersonalisation of online learning is also addressed, and effective strategies for promoting the human dimension and sustaining learner engagement are described. In the context of globalisation, as well as of the constantly increasing provision of online courses, the course model could be of interest to both the academic and the corporate world.