The document discusses communicating with course participants before a course begins. It recommends sending a welcome email one week before the start of an online course to accomplish several important goals: officially beginning the relationship with participants, reminding them of course timelines, setting expectations for communication and support, and addressing potential barriers to participation. The email should refer participants to course materials and contacts for technical support. It also notes that a welcome message should be sent after any introductory face-to-face session to address similar goals.