Learners' interest is piqued from the very beginning of the course. Time is provided at the beginning of the course for learners to get comfortable in the course environment and to resolve technological issues. Resources of the broader on-line environment are integral to the course. There are both public and private spaces provided for interaction with faculty and among learners. Courses include the use of small groups for projects and problem solving.
Learners increase their abilities to evaluate and critique on-line resources and information.
Learners' confidence grows, and their identity is changed to incorporate the new confidence.