Kimberly Lower

Online learners benefit when instructors clearly set expectations and use teaching practices that support success across all subjects. Key habits include encouraging student-instructor contact, building collaboration, promoting active learning, giving prompt feedback, stressing time on task, communicating high expectations, and respecting diverse learning styles. These principles matter because how a course is taught often influences learning as much as the content itself.

When teaching in an online environment, communication tools are essential components for student success. Communication tools help online students stay connected, ask questions, clarify expectations, and receive timely feedback. They also reduce isolation and support engagement, accountability, and success. In an online course, strong communication is often what keeps students motivated and on track.

Instructors can improve communication with online students by using clear, concise messages, responding promptly, and setting consistent expectations for emails, discussion posts, and meetings. They should use multiple channels such as announcements, video check-ins, and discussion boards, while also encouraging two-way feedback. Regular, respectful communication and timely clarification help students feel connected and supported in the online environment.

College professors at AZCN can ready online students by providing clear orientation modules, technology tutorials, and expectations for communication, time management, and academic integrity. Early low-stakes activities help students practice navigation and engagement. To assess barriers, instructors can use diagnostic surveys, brief assessments, and check-ins to identify issues with access, digital literacy, language, or competing responsibilities, then connect students with resources and adjust instruction as needed to support equitable participation and success throughout the term.