Help Me Help You! Using Asynchronous Discussions To Improve Online Student Success

Although online coursework is now considered commonplace, instructors still struggle to forge online student engagement critical to success. This 90-minute experiential exercise describes how asynchronous online discussions (check-ins) can be designed and implemented to help instructors understand and meet student needs. Check-ins—touchpoints throughout the grading period—enable instructors to connect with students, understand their unique circumstances, gather useful first-hand information, and provide supports which foster success. This exercise is of value to online instructors and administrators hoping to improve student outcomes, evaluations of instruction, and teaching effectiveness.