Keys to student retention is ease of use by the learners. A key would be to make the content as user friendly as possible.

At the instructor its important to have regular engagement with the online students. Reg engagement helps the student feel comfortable and gives them direstion.

The instructor should become familiar with the learning platform prior to the start of class. Knowing how to navigate the learning platform is necessary for successful online instruction.

developing report with students is a key idea. One the first day it is important to develop some kind of connection with the students. 

I learned that its good to be early and interact with the students before class. This helps ease the nerves of both the students and instructor.

Being a good role model for students is important. Learning to model professional behavior will set the standard from the students early in your career. Being consistent in that behavior is also important to student engagement.