Strategic communication is the surest route to becoming an e-learning pro.
Good communication is at the heart of online teaching.
Everything depends on it.
When you’re strategic about how you communicate, both you, and your students benefit. I use this approach every day as an eLearning pro.
Here’s how I do it.
Meet my new online learner, Debbie. She works part-time and has two small children – she’s busy, stressed and eLearning is new to her.
I use communication strategically to:
- Establish rapport – I welcome her to the course, using friendly but professional language and tone. If she trusts me, she’s more likely to ask for help than drop out.
- Build her confidence – I give her timely and constructive comments on her work. She’s making good progress, and will likely complete the course.
- Keep her focused – Debbie’s busy, so my instructions are clear and brief. She won’t waste time wondering what to do next.
- Ask her for feedback – Debbie appreciates my help, and says so in writing. This is evidence I can use to advance my career.
So strategic communication achieves two key outcomes.
- It supports your students, helping them have a positive experience and complete the course successfully.
- Higher course completions and glowing feedback demonstrate that you’re doing a good job.
This is a clever approach to communication. It proves to your students and colleagues that you’re an eLearning pro.