I think when it comes to having a real connection with students synchronous communication is key (as opposed to asynchronous communication) as it states "... videoconference would be more capable of conveying social presence than an email because this medium can transmit the warm smiles, head nods, and eye contact that usually accompany face-to-face interactions in real time. This sort of immediate, sensory-rich communication makes the experience seem more “real.” Text-based communications lack the cues that accompany face-to-face interactions, which can make relationship-building a bit more challenging without proper training."
Technology plays a big part in this however regardless students must feel they are connecting with the instructor, course, peers and the program in general in order to learn effectively.
