8. Interaction, Communication, and Engagement

Provide multiple opportunities for students to engage throughout the course. Plan regular interactions with students using a variety of means to reach all students.

Before the Course Starts

8.1 Identify the opportunities throughout the course that will support the following engagement types:

  • Instructor-Student engagement
  • Student-Student engagement
  • Student-Content engagement

8.2 Create a communication plan by determining when and how you will communicate with students.
Throughout the Course

8.3 Communicate with students by:

  • Sending emails.
  • Posting course announcements.
  • Reaching out to students individually.
  • Responding to and engaging different students on each discussion topic.

8.4 Model respectful interactions and communication.

8.5 Monitor and actively participate in online discussions (both written and oral).

8.6 Provide useful, timely feedback on course assignments and activities.

8.7 Provide multiple opportunities for students to receive feedback throughout the course.

8.8 Provide multiple opportunities for students to provide feedback about the course.

  • Check-in with students throughout  the course using private emails, surveys, etc.

8.9 Engage students using a variety of methods, technologies, and formats.

8.10 Provide opportunities for group work/collaboration.

8.11 Create a community of engaged students by:

  • Making connections with students.
  • Being enthusiastic and passionate about the course.
  • Building trust.
  • Modeling empathy, kindness, and compassion.
  • Empowering students through strengths.
  • Considering how students best learn.
  • Welcoming mistakes as part of the learning process.

(Sochacki, 2020)