Engaging learners in a synchronous platform should be one on one unless it is a live video stream. Asynchronous chat is most effective. Considering time zones and non engaged students will help the discussions stay on topic. 

Projecting the presence and authority of an instructor of an online course, as well as on-site instructors, is vital for students to acquire new knowledge from their course. When instructors are available online, it helps facilitate a good learning environment. Instructors can provide an asynchronous platform for which they engage with Q and As. Synchronous forums for lectures should highlight important topics. It is not necessary the instructor spend too much time speaking. Authority comes in the form of a biography from the instructor explaining their professional credentials and work experience and also achievements. Some choose to put their hobbies… >>>

Online instructors just like on-site instructors need to vary their delivery method. Online content includes asynchronous and synchronous elements like group discussions. Online instructors need to include same measurement elements as on-site instructors such as grading format, quizzes and exams, a syllabus, concise structure of the course, objectives and goals. Another element includes technical support. Frustrations with online students include having technical difficulties such as issues with software, hyperlinks that glitched or have become irrelevant or even network connectivity.

Problem based learning helps students learn by working through real-world problems instead of being given all of the information upfront.  Research and collaboration help them to apply their knowledge to find solutions.

When students know why they are completing an activity, they are more likelyt o participate and succeed.  Using low risk learning strategies is an effective way to gradually introduce students to a more interactive learning environment.

This was a good reminder that not all students have access to the same technologies and that instructors must make sure that all students can access the work. Also, always have a back up plan.

Just a reminder that not everyone has access to the same technology and to be sure that students can access the work.  Also, that active learning is a good tool to use.

Because the Active Learning strategy is a student-focused one, giving the students the methods and means to explore their learning and solve problems allows them to think more critically about how they're approaching any given topic. By collaborating and sharing ideas with their peers, they begin to understand new perspectives, potentially some that challenge their own ideologies. By solving problems that lead to many correct answers through many correct pathways, it allows them to understand that there's never just one way of accomplishing something.

Being clear with directions and objectives, as well as keeping the content tied to "why" students are doing something promotes overall engagement, and therefore more success. On top of that, incorporating "low-risk" active learning strategies is a good method to ease a class into the teaching style as a whole.

You can do several things as an instructor to comfort your students who feel restless in your course.