Hello Colleagues, These are some of the tools I have been using. Let me know your feedbacks. Motivation in the classroom I believe that it starts from the beginning of the class as we first encounter the students. The teacher/facilitator sets the tone in the classroom and students take their cues from him/her. I will illustrate step by step how motivation can actually be “created “and sustained in the online class. I have already used most of these tools and intend to “tweak” them even more in the upcoming sessions. 1-First impressions are key: I send each of my students a welcome note on the first day of class discussing the benefits of the course for their career and the best way to succeed in a distance learning environment. Spell check and on time assignment submissions are mentioned. I make this email upbeat and helpful. I set a tone of clear expectations and camaraderie. 2- Announcements: I place fun or enticing titles to spark their curiosities. I like to place a very happy “Welcome to class” post. I want them to feel as if they are part of a team. 3-Weekly notes: Every Sunday, I post a note in the classroom and reiterate how far the students have come and congratulate them for their participation. I am also proactive and discuss in advance difficult assignments and give them tools to be successful. 4-Webliography updates: It is important to keep refreshing the Webliography and send students to different links to reinforce certain topics and assist them in their research. Students feel that the instructor is really coaching them and that they are not alone in their learning process. 5-Discussions: I post additional questions regarding the weekly subjects to further the information or ask their opinions on related matters. 6- Gradebook: I use the comment section to acknowledge success and place many exclamations points (Great job!!!, Excellent effort!!!). I gently give them advice to better their grades and reinforce what is well done in their posts. I offer my assistance if I see that they are struggling with a particular subject. 7- Emails during the session: I email students who are behind/not passing on a weekly basis. I let them know that we can find options for them and that I am here to help them. I want them to know that their success matters and I remind them of their ultimate goals…a new career! 8-Prompt responses: Nothing is more important for a student that to have their concern addressed promptly. I sign in my classes every day to answer questions. I have used the above tools so far and have gotten good results. I want to continue these but also add more positive reinforcements and a more personal approach.