QM 1.8 The self-introduction by the instructor is welcoming and is available on the course site. (Important)

• Creating a short video introduction so that students can see and hear you will help foster a sense of connection. 

• Including your teaching philosophy or style and expectations will help establish a positive learning environment. 

• Let students know how to address you (ex. first name, or title).

• Include contact information, best ways to reach out with questions or concerns, and time frame within which they can expect a response. State your availability for one-on-one interactions, such as office hours or by appointment. Include how students can schedule these meetings and the platform or medium used (e.g., Zoom, phone, email).

• Sharing personal experiences or interests helps to make you more approachable. 

Welcome Message on Course Site:

(insert image)

Hello and welcome to Environmental Science 101! I’m Dr. Jane Smith, and I’ll be your guide through this fascinating study of our natural world. I hold a PhD in Environmental Studies from the University of Green Earth and have over 10 years of experience working on sustainable development projects around the globe.

I believe that learning is a collaborative process and hope to learn as much from you as you do from me. My teaching approach is student-centered, focusing on engaging discussions, practical projects, and critical thinking. Outside the classroom, I enjoy hiking, photography, and volunteering at our local nature reserve.

You can reach me anytime via email at jane.smith@university.edu, or during my virtual office hours on Wednesdays and Fridays from 2-4 PM. I encourage you to ask questions, seek clarification, and engage actively in all our activities.

Let’s embark on this exciting journey together with open minds and enthusiastic spirits!

eCampus Faculty Development offers several professional development events that can be registered for in CampusGroups. Some specific recommendations that can assist in learning more about this subject include:

• Effective Online Teaching

• Intro to Online Course Design Course

• Instructor Immediacy - Making Yourself More Approachable to Your Online Students

• Indirectly related - This can create a positive environment for students, but the introduction is passive and does not count as interaction. 

• Creating Instructor Presence from Quality by Design 

• Incorporating Videos in an Online Course from eCampus Center

• Syllabus Template Section Annotations from eCampus Center