11 Developing an Effective Student-Instructor Connection

Now that you have developed an idea of the role that your instructors will have in your online learning journey, how might you develop an effective relationship with them? Consider the following suggestions:

1. 1. When you look at a course reading, activity, or assignment, try to put yourself inside the mind of an instructor and consider the goals of your program. Why do you think the program chose this particular learning experience for you? What do you think they intend for you to learn? Understanding the purpose of a learning activity can increase your motivation and help you stay on track in your work.
2. 2. Take advantage of opportunities to connect with your instructor, through either messages in the learning management system, messages in the course forums, or video conferencing. You can connect with your instructor to clarify course difficulties but also simply to build your relationship with your instructor and demonstrate your interest in the course material.
3. 3. Check the course site regularly. Your instructor may post key messages for the class. This provides another point of frequent contact.
4. 4. Use email effectively to connect. You will learn more about how to construct an effective email in part 5, Professional Communication—but if you are curious, you may choose to view the chapter on how to email an instructor now.
5. 5. When you receive feedback on an assignment, consider it carefully. How does your instructor want to see you grow in your academic or professional skills? If you are unhappy about a mark, consider waiting twenty-four hours before sending an email to your instructor—then review their feedback again. It can help to have a cooling-off period, especially if you are quite distressed.