This paper deals with a significant challenge in education today: the challenge to teach life long learning and critical thinking skills in Web-based environments. This is a challenge for two reasons. First, business and government are pressuring educational institutions to prepare employees who can think critically, solve a range of problems, move easily from one task to another, work in team situations, and continuously enhance their knowledge and skills. Second, consumers (i.e., students) desire more distant learning strategies. Most strategies that develop these skills emphasize small group work, collaboration, and teacher/group interactions. One approach to this challenge is to apply the Rich Environments for Active Learning (REAL) model to Web-based learning environments. REALs are interactive, student-centered learning environments that rely on intentional learning, authentic contexts, generative learning activities, collaboration, and reflection to address the learning of content and lifelong learning skills. (Contains 35 references.) (Author)