This booklet outlines specific strategies to help teachers prepare an effective self-study course for students enrolled in nontraditional study. The guide is organized in four chapters that cover the following topics: (1) consideration of students and their motivation; (2) preparation of an effective course (conceptualization--goals, expectations, requirements); (3) preparation of the course study guide (perspective and the road map, introduction to the course, lesson objectives, reading assignments, lesson commentary, structuring assignments to be submitted, structuring examinations, and learning aids and format cues); and (4) support for students' work. Eight appendixes provide samples and information on consideration of students and their motivation; specifying goals, expectations, and requirements; course introductions; stating lesson objectives; lesson commentaries: effective transitions; examples of assignments; learning aids and format cues; and responses to students. A 10-item bibliography completes the guide. (KC)