When we think of humanizing a course, we might often believe it applies more to an online environment than a F2F. While figuring out ways to specifically humanize an online course is more common these days, there is definitely still a need for F2F humanizing too. Many of the most basic teaching concepts that apply to online spaces have simply been transformed to address the lack of a F2F environment. However, the idea of humanizing a course dives a bit deeper into both the social and psychological impact an instructor has on the students' overall classroom experience. Some of these areas involve empathy, presence, inclusion, awareness; just to name a few. I've compiled a list of some specific tasks and concepts you might incorporate if your goal is to make students feel as welcomed and connected as possible, in both the online and F2F classroom.
- Learn and address each student by name. This practice is as old as the classroom itself. If you address students by name they are more likely to pay attention, feel included and speak up during class discussions. When grading virtual courses, always be sure to respond by name in the comment section so they know that you are giving them and their submission your undivided attention even though you are not F2F.
- Create a welcome video to post on your LMS. This works well both on and offline. Before the class begins for the semester, students can get a glimpse into who you are and what you're like. Seeing you in the flesh, per se, can also make the first meeting day less awkward since students might be less intimidated and more willing to open up. The ice has already been broken.
- Speak conversationally in your syllabus. While it might be tempting to create a syllabus using our utmost professional language, this approach can sometimes come off as stoic or too formal. Its not a bad idea to get students prepared for the professional world through the wording in your syllabus but be sure there are enough conversational components that it doesn't come off as distant and cold.
- Answer emails and inquiries in 24 hours or less. When students believe they have "instant" access to their instructor they feel comforted even if they don't need anything. It is often surprising to instructors that decide to have open office hours, online office hours and who utilize instant messaging tools, that how little these services are actually used by the students. But ask students on the other hand, what's important to them as it relates to their instructors, and many will often say quick responses and knowing that if they had a question or concern it would be answered in a timely manner.
- Post a new announcement and discussion each week. Never leave a class lying dormant online, even if you meet F2F. Today's students tend to be virtually focused. Sending a short announcement or video as a reminder to read before class or to complete an assignment can truly help students stay on track and feel supported.
In many discussions related to online courses among instructors, there is often a focus on the lack of interaction some experience with their students. They feel that because there is no F2F interaction that it is nearly impossible to connect on a meaningful level. The connection many instructors feel with their students in F2F courses is not necessarily based on being physically in the classroom. Many times these connections are primarily strengthened through understanding, recognition and the exchange of ideas. All of these things can occur in online courses too.
In humanizing your course, the goal is always to ensure that there is a sense of community, that students feel comfortable with you, that they feel connected to their fellow classmates and that no one is invisible; especially the instructor.
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