5.4: Instructor Communication

Criterion Overview

A consistent instructor presence helps students feel supported, connected, and confident throughout the course. Clearly communicating when and how the instructor will engage with students establishes expectations and demonstrates that the course is actively facilitated rather than simply managed.

Predictable communication includes more than responding to questions. Students benefit from knowing when to expect weekly announcements, discussion participation, assignment feedback, office hours, and responses to course messages. Establishing and maintaining a consistent communication schedule reduces uncertainty, builds trust, and encourages students to remain actively engaged throughout the semester.

Instructor presence is demonstrated through regular communication, timely feedback, and active participation in the learning process. When students know what to expect and consistently experience instructor engagement, they are more likely to participate, seek assistance when needed, and remain connected to the course.

Why It Matters

Students are more successful when they know their instructor is actively engaged in the course. Clear communication expectations reduce confusion, encourage participation, and help students manage their time by knowing when feedback and course communications will occur.

Predictable instructor presence also supports a positive learning environment. Regular announcements, timely grading, and consistent participation reassure students that their progress is being monitored and that support is readily available. Rather than wondering when assignments will be graded or questions will be answered, students can focus their attention on learning.

What This Looks Like

A well-designed course typically includes:

• A clearly stated communication plan that explains when announcements will be posted.
• Expected response times for emails or Canvas Inbox messages.
• A stated timeline for grading assignments and assessments.
• Information about office hours or other opportunities to meet with the instructor.
• Consistent instructor participation throughout the course that reflects the published communication schedule.
• Communication expectations that are easy for students to locate, such as in the syllabus or Getting Started module.

Students should understand when and how they can expect to hear from their instructor throughout the course.

Design Tips

Ask yourself: Will students know when and how they can expect to interact with me throughout the course?

✔ Include an Instructor Communication Plan in the Getting Started module or syllabus.

✔ Clearly communicate when announcements, feedback, and responses to student questions will occur.

✔ Maintain a consistent communication schedule throughout the course.

✔ Notify students in advance when your communication schedule will change.

✔ Use announcements to guide students through the learning process rather than simply reminding them about due dates.

✔ Ensure communication expectations are easy to locate and written in student-friendly language.

✔ Follow through on the communication schedule you establish.