Dawn Davies

Consistency is the key.  Keep a database of learning objects.  I usually use multimodal objects.  The length of each module should be similar.   

Don't count on students coming to you with the problems, you need to look for them.   A good organizational system, simple but enforceable, can make a big difference in workload for the teacher throughout the course.   Be as clear as you can be about course requirements, throughout the time of the course.  

It is important to allow students a few minutes of social time at the beginning and end of a chat.   It works out better to have commnication be asynchronous when covering important material.   In synchronous communications, plan time ahead of time for students to have thought of their answers.  Limit the size of the synchronous groups.  

Hi My students are studying life skills and are in a substantially separate environment.  I would invite them, even if they struggle with writing, to provide some element of who they are as an introduction to a class.  This also increases their buy-in to the class.   

In E-learning, it is important to have strong technical support, and supports in place for student frustration.   Ahead of time, teachers need to think of all the elements of a course, including its end.   This includes consideration of grading, ability to contribute, and complete objectives.