I find that so many discussion contributions sound alike. What are some tactics you've used to deter AI assistance in discussion forums?

I post important (but general) announcements at the beginning of each term. I post announcements each week specific to the module and usually include helpful videos pertaining to that week. I post announcements when there is important new information for students to be aware of. I feel like they mostly ignore announcements. What strategies have you found to keep announcements from being ignored?

Students are more successful when they are confident in their instructor. Feeling seen and heard is an essential component to that confidence. Something as simple as paying attention to the students' initial introduction posts can go a long way in making students feel seen and heard.

Having a working knowledge of the CMS is vital to building student confidence in their instructor and directly impacts the students' success. Simply knowing the learning material is not enough.

As a new instructor, I have already learned that setting expectations was key in student success. I have learned that I could build greater trust with students through improved communication regarding things like availability for extra help and advising.