Although delivered via distance learning technology, distributed learning is substantially different in fundamental ways. Distributed learning could be described as a distance learning environment that supports the co-construction of knowledge, an endeavour where learners build a learning community where they are given and take on more responsibility, as well as the power to help ?spread out cognitive activities among themselves. This paper provides guidelines for and details of an online collaborative learning activity that takes the perspective of constructing an online learning environment founded upon an active, collaborative, constructivist approach that is supported through the development of a strong sense of community, a distributed learning community.