Communication and Facilitator PresenceFacilitator presence in the course is one of the most important tools for student success. This can be accomplished by posting Announcements, responding to discussion topics, acknowledging students’ contributions, and giving feedback to the group.
Introductions
If using online discussion tools for Introductions, welcome each student in the discussion topic during the first week.
Q&A
Monitor the Q&A discussion topic daily and acknowledge all students’ questions within 48 hours or two business days. A good tip is to subscribe to the Q&A topic, that way the posts come automatically to email without the need to go into Brightspace.
Course Communications
Connect with students as a group or individually every 72 hours via Discussions, Announcements, Skype, or classroom time.
If there will be any extended absence in the course or a delay in answering questions or giving feedback, communicate this to the students.
Feedback
Provide feedback on course evaluations 72 hours after the due date OR before the next evaluation. If you cannot meet this timeline because of extenuating circumstances, let the students know when they will receive feedback.
Check students’ progress regularly and provide feedback regarding their progress.