Constant evaluation of the course makes for a better learning environment for the students.

Setting standards for communication helps streamline.  Provide information to students explaining how and when to contact the teacher for various needs.

It is so beneficial to put in the time before the students show to the course.  The more procedures and systems you have in place, the smoother work time will go for all.

Organization is my middle name.  Seriously, having organizational systems in place for every component of my online class is the only way I can function and stay calm.

The seven principles for teachers and students is a useful tool for writing out the expectations for courses.

Often, the teacher needs to learn the wide variety of communication tools before those tools can be taught to the students.

Learning appropriate communication skills in an online class is wonderful preparation for communication skills needed in most careers.

Helping students learn how to prioritize and schedule their time can lead to much success.  Many students just never learned those skills.

Rubrics are a wonderful tool!  They are one more way of clearly defining expectations for students.  They can help students who are unsure of their ability to find a path for meeting the desired goal.

Being aware of the varying age groups and their typical knowledge of technology can be helpful in being prepared for possible issues in the e-classroom.  Adapting our e-conversation and expectations may be necessary without changing the desired outcome of learning.