The interaction within groups or networks of learners can be effectively supported with the use of online community sites like Facebook, MySpace or Twitter. This could be especially important for part-time students who may lack the experience of the collective when compared with the social environment of regular study groups. In our study we investigated the potential uses of the online community tool Ning in a hybrid university course for part-time students. The introduction of Ning supported the interaction between students themselves and enabled them to help each other in solving various problems. The Ning tool was used by the students to present the results of their work and create online diaries. Our case study indicated that the use of Ning supported the development of Internet skills and facilitated self-expression. Some of the technical features of Ning that are important for e-learning communities are discussed in the paper as well as the results of the course evaluation survey regarding the effects of its use on student participation and learning.