As the semester begins, students in online courses may not immediately realize how crucial it is to be actively engaged from day one. A slow start or lack of participation can quickly lead to missed announcements, overlooked resources, and falling behind on initial assignments.
To help instructors reach these students before it is too late, the following page outlines effective strategies that have proven successful in encouraging early involvement and preventing disengagement.
Phase 1: Initial Outreach
Contact the student through multiple channels for three weeks or 25% of the course (whichever is shorter). Examples include:
- Email (@pitt.edu)
- Canvas Message – group (using the “Message Students Who…” feature in the gradebook)
- Canvas Message – individual
Considerations:
- Have you tried contacting the student at different times of day and on different days of the week?
- Does your message invite dialogue rather than simply provide information?
- Have you offered a clear, specific way for the student to respond?
Phase 2: If Student Remains Unresponsive
After three weeks or 25% of the course, take the following steps:
For CGS Students:
- Email CGSAPA@pitt.edu with your concern.
- Include dates, methods of attempted communication, and any student responses.
For Non-CGS Students:
- Submit a Pitt Pathways referral (see the Pathways Referral Overview Page to confirm referral type).