Projecting Your Presence
Online instructor can effectively leverage technology such as live chat, and forum to engage with students on a daily basis. This is one thing that a physical class does NOT have.
Matt
Sara,
Your methods are very thorough. I especially like your communication with all students (including those who are progressing well) to keep them motivated to move forward. Well done.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
The online environment has many opportunities for instructor's to project a presence. Actively participating in a discussion board is one. Additionally, I have multiple office hours during the week and have them at different times of the day to account for students' varying schedules. The announcements are another great tool for reaching out to students. I post reminders and short inspirational quotes throughout the term. Last but not least, I send at least two emails per week, one at the beginning and one near the end. Also, I sent out short emails to students who have not participated and a 'mid-term' email with on overall update-whether they are progressing well or need a little help.
Karen,
Yes, this is often seen as an advantage by instructors to help maintain class continuity and momentum. Thank you for sharing.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Yes, I agree. Having contact on a daily basis online is very effective. For the most part, a class on the ground only will meet once or twice a week. I DO appreciate the frequency with which meetings can occur online.
Mathias,
Very good point. As long as the students maintain a daily login to access the communications from the instructor, it is an excellent means of having the class "stay with" the student on a more continuous and/or frequent basis. Thank you for your contribution.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
