Comment on MELINDA WOOD's post:  I agree. I feel it is our job to know what a student is feeling while they are taking classes and grow based on workable feedback.  

The online learner of today, is not the same that it was when I was a student taking classes online 20 years ago. This generation of online learners are groomed to be comfortable and confident with online engagement. Our approach to ensuring their online experience is exceptional is how we stand out. by ensuring we engage immediately and with clear expectations of our engagement policies will set everyone up for success. Attempting to make their educational experience exciting, positive and rewarding is our role in ensuring we have students, not only return, but graduate.  

Developing a sense of community while setting clear guidelines for posting

I found the information about preset objectives in a rubric regarding collaboration an insightful addition to group work to encourage participation.

Communication is one of the most critical aspects of successful interactions between all individuals involved in a course. Setting up clear initial guidelines including examples is an effective way to prevent these issues.