Hi Theresa,
You are correct the methods an instructor uses to keep the students engaged differs from face to face as opposed to on-line. I also teach on-line therefore, the methodology that I employ is availability.I have provided several ways for my students to reach me for assistance within the Blackboard arena; email, chat room, discussion tab as well as by phone. When an instructor is accessible to the students it gives them a feeling of comfort.
I also share some tips from working in the industry with my on-line students to enhance their learning experience.
