I learnt that the strength of the working alliance positively correlates to adherence to an action plan, increasing the likelihood of positive student outcomes. Working alliances can be established and maintained through early, frequent, and consistent interactions with online students.
It's important to think carefully about how policies, email communications, and individual interactions affect the overall student experience. Establishing reasonably flexible grading policies, setting clear expectations of students’ code of conduct in the online classroom, and training faculty and staff on communication skills in virtual environments can promote a culture of positive interactions with students.
