In each course I've directed using an online platform, I always start by letting thre students introduce themseleves...it is simply an amazing ice-breaker.  It even works if some of the students have been in classes  together previously as they will incoirportae that knowledge of each other into the introductory discussion posts.

@s101crider,

Yes, indeed...I strongly concur.  While it may seem superficial, the "look and feel" of the online course is what creates that first impression which is so important to human beings.  Thus, this threshold element cannot be overlooked.

Rob