Passive and active learning both have their place in an online classroom...hence the concept of the flipped classroom where students participate in passive learning to prepare for "in classroom" activities. 

Often students appear to "fall off the face of the earth". This make it difficult to convey important information to them and keep them engaged, Any suggestions? 

With the sophistication of AI technology, more students are using it. How are you handling these situations in DQs and written assignments?

I am welcome to any and all suggestions! 

I like Zoom as well, but have not used it yet to communicate with students other than to have them perform their health assessment check offs. I do plan to use it in the future more frequently. It allows for multiple numbers to be online at the same time via phone and video by using computers, smart phones, etc.

Although there are tools and strategies available to enhance engagement, if students are super busy with their multi-dimensional lives and are not in the classroom you can not put them in place. Any suggestions?