
Sarah,
I also use a multitude of methods to communicate with my online students. I email them and post announcements on a weekly basis. I also utilized email, instant message and text as well as the chat room. It can be difficult getting in contact with students but we try. I do feel that some students may feel intimidated when it comes to asking questions or asking for help. I try to be encouraging when I communicating with them. I want them to know that I am here to help and that they do not have to wait for office hours to communicate with me. I encourage them to ask questions as well. This seems to help.
Afrodite Tsiakopoulos