E-learning literature and research strongly suggest that online instructors should build their presence into a successful asynchronous course. Many faculty, however, often assume that replicating in-person presence requires a talking-head video in every module. Richard Mayer’s (2005) 12 principles for multimedia learning cast doubt on
Online teaching inherently involves technology. It is part of the deal. But all too often, technology can make us feel more distant from our students. It can be a barrier preventing connection instead of a tool to facilitate connection. If you have ever faced a
Every day, educators encounter the challenge of assisting students in remaining engaged, demonstrating progress, and mastering the curriculum. What strategies can they employ to achieve this? The use of Mastery Paths is a feature in Canvas that allows instructors to customize the learning material to
Storytelling is one of the most powerful means of communication as it can captivate the audience, improving retention of the information. It also offers students a means to apply what they learn to real life. Instead of writing a research paper on a historical event,
The use of AI in higher education is growing, but many faculty members are still looking for ways to integrate it into their instruction. Here are three strategies we’ve used to incorporate AI—in grading, student artwork development, and online discussions—that can benefit both faculty and
When I first began teaching online, I thought creating engaging and relevant content was the biggest challenge. And while that’s certainly important, I’ve realized that organizing and communicating expectations to students is at least as critical. One simple strategy that has profoundly changed how I
Like many professors, I am just trying to keep my head above water when it comes to teaching and AI. A survey conducted in August 2024 of college faculty globally showed that 35 percent viewed AI as a challenge and 65 percent viewed it as
Video is arguably the most powerful, attention-grabbing way to communicate online. But developing video has traditionally required sophisticated equipment and expertise that is beyond the reach of most faculty—to say nothing of how time-consuming or frustrating the process can be.
While much of online learning occurs through discussion board conversations, it can be challenging for students to offer different perspectives or new responses to classmates’ posts when they are all answering the same question. Similarly, instructors may struggle to develop engaging questions.
Students taking online classes represent a key part of the college-attending population. Demand for online classes and online degrees has surged in recent years, particularly since the Covid-19 pandemic (Knox 2025). But fully online students are less likely to successfully complete classes and to graduate
