This study undertook the development and piloting of a coding system for the evaluation of asynchronous Web-based instruction and learning. Processes were guided by four prominent educational perspectives and the extended examination of, and survey data from, seventeen archived Web-based courses. These served as the bases for the development and application of the coding system. Data from the pilot application of the coding system indicate that there are particular features of courses favored by learners. Features such as content richness, instructor's constructive and probing questions and responses, amount and quality of learner participation in discussions, and links to students' own experiences are integral to those courses learners deem supportive of their learning and achievement.
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