5.3: Interaction Expectations

Criterion Overview

Clear communication expectations help establish a positive and respectful learning environment where students understand how to engage with course content, their classmates, and the instructor. By communicating expectations early and reinforcing them throughout the course, instructors create a learning environment that supports collaboration, meaningful discussion, and productive academic interactions.

Interaction expectations extend beyond online discussions. They include how students communicate with the instructor, participate in learning activities, collaborate with classmates, provide constructive feedback, and engage with course materials. Clearly defined expectations help students understand what appropriate academic communication looks like and promote respectful, professional interactions throughout the course.

Modeling these expectations is equally important. Instructors establish the tone for the course through their own communication by demonstrating respectful dialogue, timely responses, constructive feedback, and professional interactions. Students are more likely to engage appropriately when expectations are consistently communicated and demonstrated.

Why It Matters

Students are more likely to participate when they understand what is expected of them. Clearly communicating interaction expectations reduces uncertainty, promotes respectful communication, and helps create an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas, and engaging in learning activities.

Establishing clear expectations also supports meaningful learning. When students understand how to communicate effectively, collaborate respectfully, and participate professionally, they can focus on learning rather than navigating unclear social expectations. Consistent instructor modeling further reinforces these behaviors and helps establish a positive learning community.

What This Looks Like

A well-designed course typically includes:

• Clearly stated expectations for communication and participation.
• Guidelines for respectful and professional interactions with classmates and the instructor.
• Expectations for participation in discussions, collaborative activities, and peer feedback.
• Communication expectations that are reinforced throughout the course.
• Instructor communication that models respectful, professional, and supportive interactions.
• Opportunities for students to practice effective academic communication in a supportive learning environment.

Students understand not only what is expected, but also how successful academic interactions should look throughout the course.

Design Tips

Ask yourself: Have I clearly explained and consistently modeled the communication and interaction expectations I want students to demonstrate throughout the course?

✔ Clearly communicate expectations for instructor-to-student, student-to-content, and student-to-student interactions.

✔ Include communication expectations in the syllabus or Getting Started module.

✔ Model the communication behaviors you expect students to demonstrate.

✔ Reinforce expectations throughout the semester, especially before discussions and collaborative activities.

✔ Provide examples of effective discussion posts, peer feedback, and professional communication.

✔ Encourage respectful dialogue that focuses on ideas while valuing diverse perspectives.

✔ Create opportunities for students to practice constructive academic communication.