Actively Connecting to Online Learners

Current circumstances have created the need to offer an increased number of courses through remote instruction. The result is that many students are required to take online courses for the first time, and often this form of delivery is not their preferred method for learning. The distant and asynchronous nature of these courses causes many challenges for all students, but especially for those learners who have not previously experienced this form of instruction. The physical separation often makes students feel isolated and disconnected from meaningful interactions and communications. An important instructional method to help “overcome the distance” is increasing efforts to make emotional and affective connections with these remote learners.

Engaging inter-personal contacts have been found to improve student performance and course completion rates. Students benefit from communications that demonstrate the instructor cares about their progress and helping them be successful learners. This is afforded by timely formative feedback about the coursework, and including comments that provide encouragement, positive reinforcement, and recognition of the student’s good efforts. Offering supportive communications is critical for motivating students and promoting positive emotional connections, which is central to student engagement and cognition. Below are some methods that assist in establishing rapport and a trusting student-instructor relationship:

• Provide weekly reminders and check-ins about course assignments
• Create an on-going discussion board for course questions
• Request student feedback about course activities through polls and surveys
• Encourage use of the various student support services (tutors, advisors, counselors, financial aid etc.)
• Consider scheduling phone calls to establish an additional form of communication
• Reach out and offer assistance to students who are struggling

Student persistence and motivation to succeed increases when they feel that the instructor is available and demonstrates a genuine interest in their concerns. Providing constructive communications with a personal touch is an important way to help students feel connected and engaged with their remote courses.