What are online faculty doing to encourage retention?
I work at an online school, and I am interested in how online faculty feel they contribute to retention.
Hiram,
Adult students need regular feedback. Thanks for pointing this out.
Jeffrey Schillinger
I agree, feedback is key and essential for the Student to progress and stay committed and motivated. Retention is Key!!!
Mark,
Most institutions have a 24 hour policy for asynchronous courses . Typically, faculty members are "permitted" to be off line either Saturday or Sunday, but most faculty still work in the course both days,
Jeffrey Schillinger
I think you right on point. What do you think is an appropriate time frame to give feedback being and online instructor?
Kate,
You are right on target here!
Jeffrey Schillinger
I think the best thing we can do is to give lots of feedback and keep communication lines open with the students. I believe giving feedback is a great way to help retention.
Michele,
Good points. Thanks for sharing them.
Jeffrey Schillinger
I have instructed in both the online and traditional on campus facility. The online environment is a little more challenging as you don't have the luxury of looking at a student during lecture to witness the "blank stare". Online, you have to rely on there prompts to you ( or lack of prompts to you) to drive initial outreach to a struggling student. You sometimes have to read between the lines of what the student is "not" saying and prompt them with a question.
Richard,
As an online instructor, it is difficult for me to feel connected to others in the school. One thing that helps is that our Program Chairs and Deans make it a point to communicate with their faculty members. We have special retention and attendance award for our online faculty who inspire students to participate and do well.
Jeffrey Schillinger
