This lesson describes how to communicate with participants during an online course. It recommends checking in with each participant individually in the first week to create personal relationships and address any difficulties. The facilitator should maintain an attendance sheet to track responses and follow up with non-respondents. Additionally, the lesson advises sending regular email reminders about assignments and addressing issues relevant to the whole group.

1. Lesson: During the Course
Objective:
After completing this lesson, you will be
able to describe why and how to
communicate with participants during
the course, check participation, and
facilitate discussions.
1

2. Topic 1: First Week Check-In
Within the first few days, check in with each participant
individually in order to create a personal relationship, and
to find out about difficulties so they can be addressed
quickly. You can also find out and respond to individual
interests with resources, as well as invitations to share
with the group in appropriate forums.
• See the Facilitating Moodle Courses
Materials for the First Week Check-In
Message Example.
2

3. Topic 1: First Week Check-In
Maintain a Facilitators Attendance Sheet to keep track
of responses you receive. If you do not receive a
response within a day or two, telephone to follow up.
• See the Facilitating Moodle Courses Materials for the
Attendance Sheet Example, along with the Attendance
Sheet Blank for you to use.
3

4. Topic 2: Email Reminders
According to the schedule in your welcome email, send
reminders of assignments, and address issues and
interests relevant to the group.
• See your downloaded document for the Reminder
Message Example.
4