Online Environment Tips?
Hi all,
I was curious if anyone out there had specific, tested tips for increasing retention in an online learning environment. This has been helpful, but would still like to hear more about specific online tips. Thank you!
Eric
Eric,
I have taught online for several years, and one thing I have found to be very helpful is periodic e-mails to students. Whenever I notice a student hasn't posted in the discussion forum or submitted their assignment for a week (or two if it's around a holiday) I will e-mail them and ask if I can help them in any way. Often students will open up about a personal problem they are having or something they are going through. More often that not it's some stress outside of school, and not just that they are being lazy. I have found that making this personal connection with them helps alot! I usually will extend the due date for them, and again, more often than not, they end up turning in their work within the extra time given. It seems like when given the opportunity, they really want to succeed- they just need someone to toss them a bone. :)
Sarah
Hi Greg,
I think this will also help get them invested in the course since they have options available to them. This should increase their engagement throughout the course.
Gary
One idea is at the end of the course. Allow your students to pick one assessment test to do over. This could improve their grade and help with retention.
