@lmeyerhoff - Lacey, I agree with you totally.  Even though we cannot see our students, if we sit up in our chairs and and go through the motions, or as you put it, exhibit the kind of body language we would have if the student were sitting right across from us, I really believe that students would pick up on our tone and excitement more.  It is easy to get lazy when you are staring at a computer screen all day. 

We have talked a lot about open vs. close ended questions and how they can be used but seeing this presented in this module really helped me see close ended questions in a new light.  Like you mentioned Emily, I can see how we can use an effective close ended question to redirect a conversation that has gotten off topic.  In the module, there was an example question that was to the affect of, "Do you mind if we go back to discussing your interests and goals regarding this degree program?"  Not only is the a direct close-ended question but… >>>

@earnold - Emily, I think that is a great way to use softners when speaking with students.  I have not thought about this but we do use this approach - or if we don't we should - so that the students know what to expect.  We have also used the term "up front contract" to describe this approach.

I tend to struggle with listening to understan as well.  Like others have said, I tend to want to problem solve and move one before really understanding the issue at hand.  I need to practice some of the skills throughout this module to better understand my student's needs before I just quickly try to solve their problem and move on.