Pre-testing is great.  It gives instructors a look at where student knowledge is at and it gives students a glimpse into what to expect.

Effective written communication is always changing. (when were emoticons invented?  how many words can I use in a text?)  Writing to students that convey attention, acknowledgment, postitive emotion and confidence takes practice!

Online learning has changed so much since it started (in the 1960's?).  Video conferencing whether one-on-one or in groups has allowed for the social aspect to be included.  Personal connections can be made and collaborative efforts are more "humanized".

There is certainly a paradigm shift in our perceptions and acceptance of online education.  Giving students foundational skills specific to success in online education from the beginning is paramount.  So many of my students, particularly the self described "old school" students were already behind before they got started simply because they didn't know how to naviage the necessary technology.

It is important to be proactive and postitive.  Letting students know that they are supported from the very beginning goes a long way.  The attitude is a bit like "customer service" as attitudes toward education has changed; students need to "buy into" the product - and that is their own success.

Online ettiquette is something that needs to be discussed early - and reinforced often.

I have never been a fan of social networking sites and am personally not on sites such as Facebook and Instagram.  However, understanding that students are familiar and comfortable with social networking, it is a communication tool to consider.

Student disabilities something to be aware of.  Perhaps a student has a learning deficit that has been undiagnosed, and has been labelled or sadly, self-labeled as dumb or a bad-test-taker.  Identifying the students early with an evaluation is a good idea to get the resources needed.

3 clear and 3 muddy concepts in a 1 minute evaluation is an interesting tool I may try.