Globalization as the intensification of worldwide social relations (Giddens 1990) continues to exert an influence on language, language use, and learning and teaching around the world. In this paper I examine the nature and influence of globalization on online language teaching through the lens of learner-centred principles, and the tensions between different positions and practices adopted by participants within virtual learning environments. I conclude by arguing that a focus on technology or innovation within global learning environments needs to be balanced by a focus on the learner in order to engage with and respond to emerging issues, challenges and practices, and to extend our understanding of language learning and teaching in the twenty-first century.