Action Mapping Creating an Action Map - Once you are familiar with the available tools and general concepts associated with distance learning the next step is to determine how you will be using those tools to facilitate your course.  One helpful approach is to create an action map where you outline some of the specific approaches and tools that will be used for your course.  This is important, because in a face-to-face course many interactions are spontaneous.  For example, if a student is confused you can tell based upon a puzzled look or a question that is asked, similarly, you can get instantaneous feedback by asking students questions. In the online environment it is a good idea to plan all interactions ahead of time.  Face-to-Face Online Equivalent Tool to Use Syllabus Post Syllabus on web WebCT or Moodle Course Lectures Create multi-media lectures and distribute them using iTunes U or an LMS NJIT on iTunes U, WebCT or Moodle Online Office Hours Making yourself available during a specific time for meeting online Marattech (voice), WebCT/Moodle (text chat), AIM/Yahoo (Instant message) Class Discussion Discussion Board WebCT or Moodle Private Discussion Email instructor/student regarding personal matters WebCT, Moodle or Email Assignments Requiring electronic file submissions and providing feedback to students WebCT or Moodle Handouts Host handouts within LMS WebCT or Moodle Quizzes Offer automatically graded quizzes WebCT or Moodle Once you have an idea of the types of interactions and tools that you will be using you can begin the process of organizing and creating the necessary materials. Next Step: Creating a Course Outline