Off-Topic Discussion Boards to Develop Student Connection and Course Success

Abstract

While online education's popularity is growing, it has unique challenges. Among them is the increased likelihood of students to drop, fail, or withdraw from the courses due to a perceived lack of connection with their classmates and their instructor. The goal of this study is to offer a specific small way in which instructors can increase that sense of connection and potentially trigger the emotions and qualities of resilience that are associated with academic success. Through the use of off-topic discussion boards with deliberate use of emotionally resonant prompts, instructors can create an online environment in which students feel increased rates of connection to the instructor and their peers.