I learned that just like in the classroom, online students will exhibit the same or similar behaviors. There is the added aspect of technical issues, and determining who truly intimidated by technology or who is using technology issues as an excuse for not completing assignments in a timely manner. Just like in the classroom, I must keep records of communication with the students regarding the behavior and how to address it. 

I liked the idea of creating a general discussion forum where students could discuss topics not directly related to the course. This could help me build relationships with learners as well as the learners building relationships with each other.     

To be an effective online teacher, I must become familiar with the program I will be using. I must make decisions before the course begins such as how many attempts will I give students on quizzes and will the questions be the same ones. I must also become familiar with managing discussion boards, responding to students' questions or comments and posting grades.  Many things involved.