Communicating with Students

It is important to set clear expectations and guidelines for communication with your students.

The following information should be available in an easy-to-access location, such as your Syllabus or the Getting Started module.

• Office hours: Set consistent office hours and provide the link to your online office.
• How to contact you by email:
  • What email address should your students use to reach you?
  • Shall they only use their ODU email?
  • Do you have any suggestions for an email title? For example, you might ask students to include the course name or the assignment reference in the title.
  • How long should students wait before sending you a follow up email?
• How announcements will be shared: Tell your students how you will share information with them. For example, will you use the Canvas announcements feature for weekly updates, or will you email the class?
• How to ask questions: Inform your students if you are going to have a Q&A area in your Canvas, or if you will hold specific live sessions to answer questions about an assignment.
• Share any other information that can help students communicate with you effectively.