Being primarily an online instructor I wanted to express the importance of retention in that environment as well. Being online we are sometimes disconnected from the campus and the students. We don't get to see them on a daily or weekly basis - so we rely on monitoring their participation and assignment submissions. Further it is harder to identify students whom are struggling or having a hard time if they don't express it. Because just because they are handing in their work, etc. doesn't mean they are having a positive and enriched experience. As an online instructor it is very important to keep your students interactive and get to know them a little bit. Make yourself feel inviting and encourage students to ask you questions or express their concerns. Further you should monitor student activity and message quickly students whom are not active. You don't want to reach the student before it is too late!