Teaching online is more than moving course content into a digital environment. Successful online instructors create meaningful learning experiences, build relationships with students, provide timely support, and maintain an engaging presence throughout the course.
Familiarize yourself with the Excelsior Checklist and Faculty Playbook to determine weekly requirements and expectations.
Establish a Strong Instructor Presence
Students are more likely to be engaged and successful when they feel connected to their instructor.
Best Practices
- Post a welcome announcement before the course begins.
- Record a short introduction video.
- Communicate regularly through announcements and messages.
- Participate actively in discussion forums.
- Be visible and approachable throughout the course.
Precautions
- Avoid disappearing for extended periods.
- Do not rely solely on automated course communications.
- Respond to student questions within your institution’s expected timeframe.
Maintain Consistent Communication
Clear communication reduces confusion and helps students stay on track.
Best Practices
- Set communication expectations early.
- Provide weekly updates and reminders.
- Use multiple communication methods available in the LMS.
- Share important dates and deadlines frequently.
Precautions
- Avoid overwhelming students with excessive messages.
- Keep instructions clear and concise.
- Ensure announcements are relevant and actionable.
Facilitate Student Engagement
Online learning can feel isolating without intentional interaction.
Best Practices
- Encourage discussion and collaboration.
- Use real-world examples and applications.
- Ask open-ended questions that promote critical thinking.
- Recognize student contributions.
Precautions
- Do not assume students will engage naturally.
- Monitor discussions to maintain professionalism and inclusivity.
- Avoid discussion prompts that only require simple agreement or disagreement.
Provide Timely and Meaningful Feedback
Feedback is one of the most important tools for student growth.
Best Practices
- Grade assignments consistently.
- Provide constructive, actionable feedback.
- Use rubrics to ensure transparency.
- Highlight strengths as well as areas for improvement.
Precautions
- Avoid generic comments such as “Good job.”
- Do not delay grading longer than institutional expectations.
- Ensure feedback aligns with assignment criteria.
Master the Learning Management System (LMS)
A strong understanding of your LMS increases efficiency and improves the student experience.
Best Practices
- Learn how to post announcements, grade assignments, and communicate with students.
- Regularly monitor course activity.
- Use LMS tools to identify students who may be struggling.
- Test links, files, and assignments before publishing.
Precautions
- Double-check due dates and grade settings.
- Verify content accessibility before posting.
- Review course navigation from a student perspective.
Support Accessibility and Inclusion
All students should have equitable opportunities to succeed.
Best Practices
- Use accessible documents and presentations.
- Provide descriptive link names.
- Use captions for videos.
- Organize content consistently.
- Follow accommodation plans provided by your institution.
Precautions
- Do not alter approved accommodations without authorization.
- Avoid relying solely on color to convey meaning.
- Ensure multimedia content is accessible.
Encourage Academic Integrity
Online courses require proactive strategies to promote honest work.
Best Practices
- Design authentic assessments.
- Incorporate application-based assignments.
- Clearly communicate academic integrity expectations.
- Use plagiarism detection tools when appropriate.
Precautions
- Avoid creating assessments that focus exclusively on memorization.
- Address suspected violations according to institutional policy.
- Maintain fairness and confidentiality during investigations.
Monitor Student Progress
Early intervention can significantly improve student success.
Best Practices
- Review participation and attendance data regularly.
- Reach out to inactive students early.
- Refer struggling students to support services.
- Document outreach efforts.
Precautions
- Do not wait until a student is failing to intervene.
- Maintain confidentiality when discussing student performance.
- Follow institutional policies regarding student records.
Manage Your Time Effectively
Online teaching can blur work-life boundaries.
Best Practices
- Schedule dedicated times for grading and communication.
- Set office hours and response timelines.
- Use templates for common student questions.
- Prioritize tasks based on urgency.
Precautions
- Avoid being available 24/7.
- Do not let grading accumulate.
- Set realistic turnaround times for feedback.
Foster a Positive Learning Environment
Creating a respectful, welcoming atmosphere encourages participation.
Best Practices
- Establish course etiquette expectations.
- Model professionalism and respect.
- Encourage diverse viewpoints.
- Create opportunities for community building.
Precautions
- Address inappropriate behavior promptly.
- Avoid public criticism of students.
- Ensure discussions remain respectful and course-related.
First Month Online Teaching Checklist
Creating a respectful, welcoming atmosphere encourages participation.
BEFORE YOUR COURSE STARTS
Review & Prepare
- Review the syllabus thoroughly
- Verify all course links and content
- Become familiar with LMS communication and grading tools
- Post a welcome announcement
- Record an introduction video
WEEK 1
Welcome & Connect
- Send a welcome message
- Encourage student introductions
- Review student participation
- Respond promptly to questions
WEEKS 2-4
Engage & Support
- Monitor student engagement and assignment submissions
- Contact inactive students
- Provide timely feedback
- Post weekly announcements
- Refer students to support resources as needed
Final Advice for New Online Faculty
Successful online instructors are present, responsive, organized, and supportive. While technology is important, student success is most strongly influenced by clear communication, meaningful feedback, consistent engagement, and a welcoming learning environment. Focus first on building relationships and supporting learning, then use technology to enhance those efforts. This approach helps create an online classroom where students feel connected, supported, and motivated to succeed.