Change your teaching style and philosophy . You need not write the equivalent of a Web-based book. The Internet course environment is ideal for weaning you away from old lecturing practices into the more nourishing and satisfying world of instructional management in which you help students find, comprehend, integrate, and apply knowledge. Make it clear what students are supposed to DO . Be explicit with goals, objectives, assignments.
Frills can consume more time and effort than they are worth .
Fancy graphics and special features reduce the amount of time you have available for the really important things you must have in an Internet course. Letting students set their own schedules is a mistake . Too many students will put everything off until the last minute. This also destroys any attempt at group work, because some students will be very conscientious and prompt, and they will become frustrated and angry with their procrastinating team members. Set rigid deadlines for every major activity.