I would consider the most two important pattern of communication:
1. Proper tone. Both instructor and students must maintain proper tone by keeping the guidelines set forth by the instructor and the university
2. Be Supportive by offering formative feedback and responses to questions and issues.
Virginia,
Any type of written communication can be misunderstood. That is for sure. The pattern you have developed in being respectiful and supportive is great. Timeliness is important as well. It's important to communicate with students as to when you will reply to emails or dicsussion board postings.
My rule is that I will reply within 24 hours. Some use 48 hours as their rule. However, whatever the rule, stick with it an be consistent. Thanks again for your input.
There was an article published by American Psychological Association that discussed how very easily tone can be misunderstood in email communications. That is because, according to APA, tone and body language cannot be inferred in the context reduced environment of an email.
I had what felt to me like an insane "altercation" with a dear friend. Turns out, she was less computer savvy even than I. I was trying to brainstorm why she wasn't receiving emails and gave a list of suggestions- including checking her "trash." Turns out she didn't know that the spam folder can be referred to as trash. We worked it out but it gave me a bad moment. So, one of the most important things for me would be to educate/teach about this phenomenon and urge anyone to check out the intention of a message before assuming the worst.
E.g., my intended pattern is always supportive and respectful, if you hear otherwise, check in with me.
The second important issue for my situation is timeliness. It is as vital as an on-ground, or in terms of work ethic, to be responsible and accountable - both I2S, or S2I, perhaps even S2S.
Gail,
These are two important steps in communication. When you develop a safe online environment, students feel more comfortable expressing their needs.
Thanks.
Allow the student express their concerns if in fact they are not clear in what is expected.
Also be receptive and timely in responding to the student.
