The document discusses communicating with participants during an online course. It recommends that within the first few days, the facilitator should check in with each participant individually to create personal relationships, identify any difficulties, and respond to interests. The facilitator should maintain an attendance sheet to track responses and follow up with anyone who does not respond within a day or two. The facilitator should also send reminders according to the schedule and address issues and interests relevant to the group.

1. Lesson: During Your Course
Objective:
After completing this lesson, you will be
able to describe why and how to
communicate with participants during
the course, check participation, and
facilitate discussions.
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2. Topic 1: First Week Check-In/
Reminders
Within the first few days, check in with each participant
individually in order to create a personal relationship, and
to find out about difficulties so they can be addressed
quickly. You can also find out and respond to individual
interests with resources, as well as invitations to share
with the group in appropriate forums.
 See the Facilitating Online Courses
Materials for the First Week Check-In
Message Example.
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3. Topic 1: First Week Check-In/
Reminders
Maintain a Facilitators Attendance Sheet to keep track
of responses you receive. If you do not receive a
response within a day or two, telephone to follow up.
 See the Facilitating Online Courses Materials for the
Attendance Sheet Example, along with the Attendance
Sheet Blank for you to use.
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4. Topic 1: First Week Check-In/
Reminders
According to the schedule in your welcome email, send
reminders of assignments, and address issues and
interests relevant to the group.
 See your downloaded document for the Reminder
Message Example.
 Click Topic 2 to continue.
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