I use a set of three foundation rules
1) The first is an introduction to the class, introduce myself, the class, some very basic details and ask them to fully read the expectations, syllabus, course outline and other important documents
2) The middle is like a check-up, how is everyone doing, how the class is progressing and what to look forward for the remainder of the session, and the last
3) Is an end-of-class email, thanking them for a good class, their interactions, and to make sure all their discussions/assignments are completed and a general thank you
Those are my three main emails, but then during the session I send out weekly notices to those who might be missing some discussions and/or assignments and other important school notices, and if anyone emails me, I reply, usually within 24hr, since I usually log on once a day
Jessica,
Thanks for noting how you communicate with the class as a whole vs. individual student messages. It makes sense. The 24 hour rule is acceptable and being professional in your communication is awesome. Thanks!
Theran,
A welcome email is a great start. There should also be a "Start Here" button so students know where to go the first day. Communicating through email and the LMS are typically the way online instructors build in communication. Thanks!
I will send general emails (i.e. pointers, announcements) to the class as a whole. Private emails (i.e. grades, missed assignments) are sent on a one-on-one basis, within 24 hours of student's initial email and with acceptable greeting (i.e. Dear John).
Like many responding to this question I:
1. Send out a welcome email when starting a class.
2. I respond to all student emails.
3. If a student did not submit any assignments during the week I email them offering assistance
4. If there is an emergency on my part I will email the students.
Tanya,
Stressing professionalism is so important. We are the role models and anything we can do to help them develop their professionalism as well is worth it. Thanks!
When emailing students I keep it professional, but always try to remain approachable and empathetic. I send out a class email each week with lesson videos and the unit expectations. I check emails daily to avoid any unnecessary stress to the student.
I maintain an email presence to let students know that I am there to support them.
Daniel ,
Concise and to the point. Much communication can be improved this way. And, you are right, we can't provide too much repetition or students will become passive and just wait for you to tell them what to do. We have to help students become more responsible for their learning. Thanks for your input.
Tena;
I am a proponent of keeping emails succinct, focused, positive in my choice of language, and clear in expectations regarding such things as due dates, quality of submissions, proper use of APA guidelines, etc. The latter is a real problem for about 1/2 of every class (give or take a few). I try not to condition a class with repetitive emails in such matters as grades posted and forum requirements. For me, repetition encourages passive learning. They can be expected to spend time with the technology and AIU system (exploring is a creative exercise). Thanks.
Dan Campagna
Tasha,
The 24-48 hour rule seems popular among online instructors and provides timely feedback. We do use student emails to clarify information and adjust our teaching. Nice job.
One of my major rules that was mentioned in the course, is that I am always sure to reply to emails within 24-48hrs. I mentioned in another post that I keep a tight schedule in order to ensure I am being timely and so that I do not miss any emails.
I always try to assist the student in seeking answers out for themselves as part of the learning experience, so in that sense I guide them as opposed to directly giving them an answer all the time each time. I want them to familiarize themselves with being able to seek responses within the course space as well.
Also, if I receive several emails regarding the same time, I am sure to go back into the classroom and provide more clarification.
Emry,
Emphasizing professionalism is important throughout the course. Setting the stage early and helping students understand those "rules" is essential. Nice job.
Ms. Crews:
The 'rules' that are kept in mind all revolve around consistency and professionalism, as with the majority of the concepts in an online course. Consistency ensures that e-mails are responded to in a prompt manner (within 24 hours) and the response should also provide the appropriate information so that the student understands that e-mails are a way to receive a thorough response, with as much information provided.
As with all communications in the course, language must be guided by the rules of professionalism - the common theme kept in mind, while composing or responding to e-mails is that the communications should be at the business-professional levels.
Cheers
Emry
Barbara,
Sounds like you are doing a lot of emailing and you may be able to benefit from the Frequently Asked Questions discussion board where you and students can answers others' questions. It may save you some time. Thanks!
Vimlarani,
Good rules for others to follow and implement in their courses and communication with students.
Nice job.
I try to send emails to the entire class very infrequently--usually only if a chat needed to be rescheduled. I do respond within 24 hours or sooner (my school policy is within 24 hours). I answer all emails, even when they are just informing me that an assignment will be late.
Hello Students,
All e-mails, calls, and assignments must include your full name as is listed in student roster and biology section information (for example, Biology Lab: 421) in the subject line of the email. This will help me expedite my responses to you. Your cooperation in this matter is highly appreciated.
The subject line should include the following information: Jan_Doe_ SCIE_Biology_Lab_421
Dr. Chopra
Vivian ,
You are providing students will good etiquette to use in the profession world of work. Excellent. Keep it up.
Thanks for your input.
My number one rule is to follow email etiquette. This means they are not to use all caps when writing; no profanity and proper grammar and spelling. I do not allow texting when emailing me. I also expect students to reply to me with 24 hours just as I am required to reply back to them within 24 hours.I also prefer them to address by my last name instead of my first name.
Vivian
Angela,
Excellent. I too encourage students to have the course in the subject line. Many times they forget that we may teach more than one course. I have many times replied to an email with this one question, "Who is this?" ;-)
Thanks!
