It is definitely a stumbling block if you have a student that doesn't respond to your offer of help. There are other ways you can try to contact them or get them to connect with you. It might be necessary that you call them and try to discuss any issues they may be having by phone, sometimes when contact is made in a manner that is different then online it creates openings in communication that might work more effectively.
Good points, Vincent.
The peer learning community is probably an 'underused' resource in many online classes. I agree that the inherent support structure at the school often accommodates some approaches better than others. Persistence in seeking additional avenues of outreach will often uncover positive results.
I would disagree with that although it would depend on what type of support structure is available at the school. For example, reaching out to the advisor or even the dean may help to get the student to respond. In addition, students may feel more comfortable working with their peers where you can also build a study group that can help each other. There are many things that we can do, we simply have to see why the student isn't responding to our offers for help and find alternative methods to reach out to them.
Kelli,
All of these are solid strategies that are used by many good online teachers. These are a great foundation for any online teacher's 'bag of tricks' to assist students. Model the behavior you expect and be available are two of the strongest. Nice job!
Terry,
Many students really do like the f2f help when it is available, which is not often. I'm sure you already observe this, but I would like to caution all that these types of meetings require substantial safety measures, if they are used. I like your dedication.
There is plenty we can do...
1) provide effective 'hand holding' feedback
2) place tips and tricks in the announcements
3) be the first one in the discussion forum to get the discussion started
4) be active in the classroom
5) set an example and be a role model
6) lastly continue to remind them of your open door policy and the fact that you are there to set them up for success!
My Best,
Kelli
I think that if you offer to meet the student to help if you are local this can help, even though they may not go through with it, the offer that there is another avenue seems to work.
Tanya,
These are excellent interventions you identify. I'm sure they assist many students (who would otherwise quit) to stay on track with their educational pursuits.
Do you sometimes have students that are unresponsive to these efforts? If so, does your institution provide additional Learner Services?
Hi Dr. Vaillancourt,
I disagree in a way. At my particular institution, we have a role that is known as "Campus OLS." This role intervenes and get in touch with the students whenever a student does not respond/communicate with the Instructor after various attempts.
There are also tutors on campus that can assist students face-to-face, if the student feel more comfortable in this setting.
The offers for assistance you indicate are excellent and somewhat comprehensive. There is obviously a great deal that can be done. Sadly, there are still those in the 'second class' you identified. Nice job - very good posting!
