Communicating with students is imperative and key to keeping students on track.

Early
and frequent communication can ease student anxiety.

 Communicate with your students before the start of the term through email and
Blackboard. Your communication can help clarify a number of areas that will help
students succeed in your class:
 Course delivery mode. Let students know whether the course will
be taught face-to-face, online, or in some combination. For online
delivery, let them know whether they will participate synchronously
or asynchronously.
 Instructor contact information. Provide a few options for how
students can communicate with you, if possible. Let students know
how you will communicate with them and how quickly they can
expect you to respond to their questions and concerns.
 Check-in process. Let students know how often you will expect
them to check their email or Blackboard
 Technology needs. Identify the specific technology students will
need to complete coursework (e.g., computer, internet, webcam,
mic, speakers, smartphone, etc.). If using Blackboard, suggest that
students download the Blackboard App to their smartphone, if
possible.
 Attendance expectations and attendance requirements. Make
sure your expectations match university attendance policies. If
circumstances require changes in your course or delivery method,
follow university guidelines as they are announced.
 Students’ Communication Needs. Encourage students to share
their needs with you. Students studying remotely may be accessing
the course through their smartphone only, and some may not have
reliable internet service to complete work. Knowing how students
 are accessing the course materials may help your communication
efforts.
 Communicate regularly with students about assignments, procedures,
expectations, and ongoing progress toward course goals.
 Contact students whenever you have updates or decide on any large changes for
the course.
 Give students many opportunities to share their lives and concerns as well as
their questions about the course. More two-way communication with your students will
lead to greater engagement and more effective teaching.