Peek into a math classroom, virtual or physical. What are students doing and saying about their math learning? Are they engaged? Are they thinking critically -- evaluating solutions, assessing their understanding, revising their strategies, explaining concepts, and connecting mathematics to real life? Helping all students become more self-directed in their mathematics learning is especially necessary in the online environment. Although many of the strategies for fostering self-directed learning are similar in physical and virtual classrooms, there are some differences to consider and plan for. This article presents some concrete ways to help students grow these learning proficiencies in virtual classrooms as well as or instead of physical ones.