Can Online Students Really Forge Relationships With Their Teachers?

Often, students enroll at an online school because they want to minimize the amount of interaction between themselves and their teachers. If that is the case, the student will most likely not respond to a teacher’s efforts to forge a relationship. 

Some students find face-to-face interaction with adults intimidating, so the idea of communicating with their teachers digitally makes it more bearable. These students are more likely to respond positively to a teacher’s efforts to forge a relationship.

We live in a day and time when much of our lives are dependent on the Internet. People trade, communicate, work, and entertain themselves through an online medium. Students are able to forge a relationship with a teacher online, especially when the teachers make initial contact.

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How will online teachers forge relationships with their students?

It all starts with a good introduction. 

Teachers at Enlightium Academy always send a greeting letter when a student joins their class. Teachers introduce themselves in a colorful way, share about their interests and families, and present themselves as fun, interesting people who will help their students throughout the coursework.

For some students, this introduction is enough to break the ice; they will respond with an introduction of their own, and the teacher will remember this conversation.

For other students, an introduction is not enough, and teachers know this. Throughout the school year, teachers will continue reaching out to students in different ways. Most of their interactions are through chat on Ignitia or Canvas, although some students have access to teachers through phone tutorials, screen sharing, and face-to-face video chat. We recommend that students get into the habit of checking their teacher's messages at least once a day, as that is where teachers leave valuable feedback on assignments, share reminders, and share other important messages with their students. Staying on top of messages is the primary way students connect with their teachers and stay in the know about information related to their classes. Teachers also love to hear from their students and form that connection with them!

Whether through face-to-face or only just written communication, the chance to work one-on-one with the student is what gives teachers the opportunity to truly forge a relationship with them. It is during these interactions that teachers can continue to learn about the person behind the screen name. It isn’t uncommon for teachers to know the names of their students’ pets or to be in prayer with the student and his or her parents. 

The goal as teachers is to get to know each student on a personal level, so they feel comfortable reaching out any time they have questions or concerns. We strive to help each student feel known, supported, and encouraged at Enlightium.

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‍Since 2003, Enlightium faculty and staff have served partner schools, online, and homeschool K-12 students. With parental support, excellent instruction, and a personalized approach to learning, Enlightium equips students with the academic, spiritual, physical, social, and emotional skills they need to succeed in life. For any other questions about Enlightium, please call (509) 319-2288 or visit EnlightiumAcademy.com.