How can the use of creative media enhance student learning?

Many students initially think that online courses are much easier than traditional in class courses. How can professors communicate to students the need for them to spend substantial time participaing in each online course?

How can professors encourage students to participate in synchronous discussions?

In one of my online teaching experiences, instructors were required to call all students during the first week of class. (We were given a long distance card to use). Do you think that calling students would increase the retention rate?

In most of my classes students are required to participate with classmates in discussions and I encourage them to ask questions about others' postings as well as share life experiences. If a student can tie in the newly learned material with thie life experiences, they will be motivated to acquire more new knowledge that they an apply to their lives.

What are some special techniques that an instructor can use in an online environment to motivate students?

What are some ways that a seasoned instructor can include suprise elements in a course that he/she has been teaching for many years?