As an online instructor, I have found one of the most important methods of supporting students and helping to keep them engaged is to be warm and enthusiastic in my responses. When I post a friendly bio, respond thoughtfully to each student bio, and also engage students with warm and inviting responses, I find that students respond very well. Indeed, one of the more common comments I hear about my classes is how friendly and inviting the atmosphere is. Students feel supported and therefore comfortable to approach me when they have challenges.
