Virginia,
Any type of written communication can be misunderstood. That is for sure. The pattern you have developed in being respectiful and supportive is great. Timeliness is important as well. It's important to communicate with students as to when you will reply to emails or dicsussion board postings.
My rule is that I will reply within 24 hours. Some use 48 hours as their rule. However, whatever the rule, stick with it an be consistent. Thanks again for your input.
