I again remember the challenges of teching online with the lack of human interaction face to face can cause procrastination. I am reminded to seek out the reason such as family issues or just IT issue which can leave the student searching for answers on how to resolve to be able to finish or even start course.

The lesson I have learned is that there is an increase of preparation time required for things to go smoothly in class.This has to be attributed to the lack of facial impression or body language shown in that format. The participation of students through questions being  both asked and/or  answered may be the only way known whether or not the material is being clearly understood. 

I like that using your credentials / bio is encouraged to humanize the instructor. The faster the student can get comfortable with who they are being instructed by may just increase the rate at which material is absorbed and ultimately retained.