In order to help students succeed the instructor must provide security and autonomy. The instructor must remember that it is the students perception of themseles not the instructors perception of the student. Giving the student positive feedback even when the answer may not be what you were looking for is important to security. Providing choices during instruction is important for autonomy.

I was reminded that different personalities and behaviors in the traditional classroom will also be the personalities in the online classroom. I learned to watch out for those different personalities and how to adjust the learning environment to help each of them. 

I think it's very important to establish a connection with online learners and posting a short biography is a great way to give them a feel for my personality and experience. I have them do the same and post a biography for their first assignment. 

To ensure students are comfortable and successful with the online course - the instructor must fully understand how to use the CMS.