IM (Instant Messaging) and live chats permit immediate and direct response to student questions.
Consider allowing substantial time for IM throughout the week to reduce the frustration of waiting for an instructor's reply.
Consider using IM to "hunt" students and ask for their feedback on how they are doing... You send an email to initiate the discussion for students whom you believe are in danger of being high risk. Request a meeting in live chat so that the student can hear your voice.
