It is essential that the teacher take the lead in controlling the online environment. Providing specific guidelines and rules to the students at the beginning of the class through the course syllabus, class announcements, emails, and online chat sessions is critical. Also, being alert at all times to the class climate is key to maintaining a learning environment that encourages success in each student.

It is important on day 1 of the class to make each student feel as if their participation through discussions, ideas, and opinions really matter to you as the instructor and to the rest of the class. Being a vital part of the group definitely encourages participation!

I believe that it is important to project a personal touch with each student. Making each student feel that they are important and their opinions matter are a priority for me on day one of a class. I feel like one of the most vital things I can do for my students is to give them the self-confidence they need to succeed!

Potential online instructors should be required to take an orientation quiz to see if they are ready, technically and otherwise, to teach an online course. There is a huge difference in being an online instructor and an on-campus instructor. The time commitment is much more stringent in online classes.