It is important to have a consistent way of measuring the effectiveness of the communcation of students.  Rubrics are designed to do this.

It is important for me to understand that students in different age groups may communicate differently.  It will be important for me to make sure all students are participating and that the rules for participating are clear.

I have learned the importance of communicating my expectations concisely and consistently.  I must also model the types of communication I expect of the students.

It is important to be able to evaluate the effectiveness of the communication tool I have chosen to make sure it is the most effective way of communicating with my students.  If the tool is ineffective, I need to consider evaluating another tool.

I must make sure I understand how to use the various technological platforms and how to incorporate them, if at all, into my online course.  I must make sure that my learning points are concise, informative, and not boring.

I must communicate feedback to my students proactively, offering prompt, informative feedback.

Consistent communication is very important in the online teaching environment.  It is important to know the advantages and disadvantages of both synchronous and asynchronous teaching, and when to use each.

It is important for me to understand how a tool works in order to properly assess its effectiveness in my online course.  While I do not have one specific teaching style, I understand that it is important to know when to use each style for increased effectiveness.

Critical thinking requires discipline.  Because we live in an age of "instant attainability" students are not willing to spend the time needed to develop critical thinking skills.  It is my job to help them understand the importance of becoming disciplined in the art of asking appropriate questions in order to make judgments that are sound.  These are skills that will carry into their professional lives.