For many faculty members, the question is simple: to build a webpage or not to build a webpage? Most folks are convinced that something valuable is going on with the proliferation of websites. But few have the time or inclination to learn the various programming languages necessary to maintain effective websites. The emergence of webpage design software, most notably DreamWeaver, has helped many folks automate the page creation process. But, again, many faculty members simply do not have time to master a sophisticated software package. Fortunately, many recent version browsers provide basic page design functions that handle the programming, leaving you to craft your online presence.

A recent version on Netscape, for example, features Composer in its Communicator menu. Exploring its interface, you'll note icons that represent key functions: place a link, add a graphic, or manipulate the text. Launch Composer and experiment with its generally intuitive interface. One objective might be to craft a first week's assignment for students in one of your classes. Doing so, you might review other components of the Free Online Tools website to create an image database for your class, place a link to a newly created listserv, or point your students to a research tool. Don't worry: we'll talk about the process of editing and saving your page - and clarify any confusing terminology - during our workshop. Below are some useful off-campus web design resources. To add to this collection, please email me the title and address of your suggestion.