Communication Guidelines Quest - (Communicate 2.1.2)

Without a doubt, effect communication is critical as an educator.  It is even more critical in an online environment.  It is important to be comfortable communicating information through a plethora of venues, paying particular attention to keeping students and families "in the loop" regarding deadlines, important dates, and special events.  

The outline below provides a framework that helps summarize ways to communicate with the VIPs in the world of online education.  

Welcome Emails:

A welcome email should communicate just that: it should welcome students, families, and facilitators to the class.  Tell them about yourself; make them aware of your enthusiasm and desire to see all your students excel.  This email should provide introductory information and answer basic questions about the semester.  Be sure to include your contact information so families will have it available from the very beginning of the semester.  

Personal notes versus mass communication to stakeholders:

Personal notes should be utilized when personal information needs to be communicated.  Examples would be grades, conference appointment information, and anything that is unique to an individual student and their families.  Mass communication can be utilized for important dates, events, and messages that are applicable to all students.  

Stakeholders:

All communication should be professional, cordial, and respectful.  It is important to both give encouraging feedback while also communicating areas in which a student can improve when appropriate.  

School Policies regarding Communication:

All school guidelines and policies should be followed when creating and utilizing online communication.  Make certain to follow all FERPA guidelines as directed by its current guidelines.  

Tools available for Effective Communication:

A variety of tools are available to communicate with our stakeholders.  Utilize a variety of things like email, phone calls, personal notes, LMS communication features, Dial My Calls, and Remind 101 as needed,

It's always better to over-communicate rather than to communicate too little!