The process for designing an online course goes something like this:

1. The author proposes a topic to the Educational Team (abbr: ET) (Moderator@fuse.net).

2. The ET deliberates and responds. If positive, a preliminary outline is requested.

3. The outline is discussed personally or by telephone with the author.

4. The author prepares the first lesson (text only) and a selection of audio interviews or video clips that could be used to enhance the experience of the first two lessons.

5. The ET discusses ways to strengthen the first lesson with the author (Skype conference call).

6. The author prepares lessons two to eight. Our technician creates a new online classroom and places the lessons in their context. Suitable pics and exploratory experiences are added.

7. The online course is run with a select group of pioneering participants who test drive the course. The author and technician collaborate in upgrading all aspects of the learning experience.

8. A scholar in the field vets the entire course. Some additional fine tuning may result.

9. The author tweaks the course description, the learning outcomes anticipated, and the short and long paper required of participants who wish to obtain a Certificate at the end of the course.

10. Success! The course becomes an official part of the syllabus. Ideally, the author moderates the course the first three times and trains an understudy who will become a three to five year, remunerated moderator.

This is an idealized situation. In practice, some aspects are expanded and some aspects are contracted. They don't always move in neat consecutive order.

In any case, the objective is to create (as a team) a dynamic and interactive set of eight lessons that have the character and inspiration of the author solidly visible throughout.