by Dr. Laura L Thompson

In this session, we will explore the new Federal Guidelines to determine characteristics of regular and substantive communication that must be a part of online courses. During this discussion, we will discuss the development of a plan for communication that addresses both a schedule for communication and sample verbiage in effective communication. Throughout, we will reference instructor presence as the keystone to effective courses. Instructor presence contributes to interactions for learning, socialization of content, community development, and the overall learning experience.

Dr. Thompson earned her PhD in Psychology with an emphasis in the integration of technology and instruction from Grand Canyon University. Currently, as a Learning Strategies Coordinator at Delaware Technical and Community College, Dr Thompson provides professional development for faculty regarding instructional strategies and technology integration. Her research interests include online community development, the instructor’s role in the online environment, and effective technology integration.