Online Communication Strategies | Origin: EL201
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Online Communication: Engaging and Retaining Online Learners --> Online Communication Strategies
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
This module helped me better understand how intentional communication builds connection and supports student retention in online environments. I learned that strategies like using students’ names, validating emotions, and being mindful of tone and word choice can significantly strengthen rapport. Going forward, I plan to apply these relational writing practices and use more personalized, supportive communication to help students feel seen, heard, and supported.
Institutions needing help the most might struggle because they rely too heavily on one approach or simply aren't using the right blend of interventions. Leveraging both hi-tech and high-touch approaches is widely considered a best practice for genuinely improving student retention.
I learnt that when communication is stripped of any physical or vocal cues, you are left with the typed word. The words we use reveal much about our attitudes and intentions. It is important to be thoughtful with language and use words with positive or neutral connotations to convey a supportive, nonjudgmental attitude, especially in the absence of nonverbal cues.
Acknowledging students’ presence, emotions, thoughts, and concerns communicates to students a willingness to listen and that they are deserving of individualized attention. This statement clearly demonstrates social presence in online communication and can augment attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction(ARCS Model)motivation for achieving engagement and retention of online learners.
I learned the importance of using intentional, relational communication strategies to better support online students. Techniques such as validating emotions, using tentative stems, response sequencing, and fostering social presence can greatly improve trust, clarity, and engagement. I plan to apply these strategies in my daily communication with students to build stronger connections, reduce misunderstandings, and better support their academic success.
I learned the importance of clarity, tone, and responsiveness in online communication. I’ll apply this by being more intentional, offering quick follow-ups, and writing messages that invite dialogue.
Clear and consistent interaction
Showing that you care through reflecting their emotions goes a long way.
I am reminded that appropriate validation and communication response sequencing is important for student retention
I've learned that effective communication and positive responses can come when we validate the feelings of our students. We want them to stay engaged and motivated, so we need to show them that we care.
Connecting with students before correcting with effective communication is key.
I enjoyed reading about the different Advanced Relational Writing Practices and how I can communicate with students better to help them know that their feelings are validated and their success is important to me also.
It is important to use correct verbage to send clear and kind messages online. Many messages taken in different ways.
Applying the right communication strategies at all times ensures a good understanding with students and, consequently, better academic and learning outcomes. These strategies keep students motivated; this is the main reason for good communication. Whether it's enriching descriptive text with emojis or organizing the structure of an ARCS email, this is key.
It is the instructor's responsibility to create learning activities to engage.
I learned about OHT and USDLA. Online Communication Strategies and basic relational writing practices. Choice of words and positive vs. punitive language and variety of type of statements.
A sense of community and belonging fosters a good learning environment.
I have learned that as an educator I must intentionally design programs and courses to facilitate community development.
Good afternoon!
I truly enjoyed the descriptive immediacy and time presence portion of the course. Sharing what is happening with me in relation to time based on the student's actions is a great way to establish a human connection. I may have utilized this technique without knowing it in the past, but I am fully aware of this strategy now and plan on utilizing it more.
Learning to communicate with statements acknowledging students concerns and also closing with positive remarks can greatly impact students completing the course
