I prefer email communication with students because it provides a written archive or record. A phone call cannot be recorded so what is said can be taken out of context or the conversation could be presented or "heard" in quite different terms during follow-up. Also, an email provides a measure of insulation for the student and instructor against false statements or accusations.
And finally, an email serves as a note-taking service of sorts, as the student or instructor can refer back to the email for further clarification or as a refresher, depending on the nature of the email.
Kimberly,
The follow up via email for documentation is an important point. Thanks for bringing that up in this forum.
I typically provide my phone number to students in case they have an emergency or need help with something before I am able to check my email for the day. I also follow up any and all communications with an email to the student (just for documentation purposes) within the course email to ensure we both agree on what was discussed should any questions arise.
Mamie,
Yes, many provide the phone as an option but not necessarily the first point of communication. Thanks for your input.
As we are teaching in an online environment, calling students would not be my first form of contact. However, I am available by phone everyday during specified hours to assist my students. I reserve phone calls for student outreach or if the student perhaps just needed a little more clarification. I limit my phone calls because I do not want the students to misinterpret it or think the phone is our main line of communication. I especially like the chat feature over the phone. Students may feel that is less intimidating.
M. Allen
Sarah,
I have called before to introduce myself, clarify some feedback I have provided to students, talk to them about getting back on track as they have fallen behing, and also to talk about a suspected cheating issue. I don't call all the time, just when needed. Everyone has a different way of doing things.
