This writing analyzes the differences between the face-to-face and distance modalities and some of the aspects that are at the center of the problem of teaching, learning and the content of the curriculum. Such analysis is part of a frame of reference, which, as a background, gives meaning to the text. For example, the evolution of education and oral and written language, the school and educational systems, as well as some of the undesirable effects of globalization and technological development. It is concluded by stating the salient aspects of the relationships between these components and the importance of the competences for the use of oral and written language and of the training of teachers. These actions contribute to improving the results of teaching and learning in any of the educational modalities.