The design of online learning environments is a complicated process because it entails the use of technological tools to mediate the various forms of interaction situated in the learning process. One possible way to help reduce such complication inherent in various forms of interaction is to look at design as a problem-solving activity. This means online design will become an endeavor to minimize design problems and provide solutions to these problems. The process includes considering converting online activities into their face-to-face counterparts, the suitability of affordances and contexts of the chosen tool, and the favorability of users' perceptions of the tool.