This paper describes the development and evaluation of a World Wide Web-based component for a required freshman seminar at the Pennsylvania State University College of Agricultural Sciences. Students (n=170) were given a pre-test to assess their access to, knowledge of, and proficiency with computers. The pre-test was designed to address four broad categories: computer use, ability, and perceptions; Internet perceptions and use; communication preferences; and demographic information. This formative evaluation assessed student needs and helped the project team to continue to develop course content for the semester. A summative evaluation was given at the end of the semester to ascertain students' perceptions of web-based assignments and needed changes for future courses. In addition, one faculty member from each section participated in a phone survey, answering questions about their experiences with the course. It was concluded that using a computer-based asynchronous teaching model is quite different from the more traditional model and requires special considerations; practitioners should incorporate formative and summative evaluations to enhance learner satisfaction, to ensure goal attainment, and to demonstrate accountability. (DLS)