In my latest class, I used the calendar feature of eCollege to post the due dates for posts and assignments. I had not done this before because I felt that students are adults–surely they can manage their own time. Most of my students are teachers themselves, so they should realize the importance of turning assignments in on time. I posted due dates in three places as it was:

• In the syllabus,
• On an Overview of Assignments Page, and
• In the directions for the assignments themselves.

Nevertheless, this fourth reminder did help. Instead of about 5-7 late submissions, I had only 3. How great not having to grade so many straggling assignments in my spare minutes!

I can’t help but think, though, that most on ground teachers give students the syllabi, and that’s it. Students sink or swim. Do online students need more supports like this? I know that in my on ground learning experiences fellow students reminded each other of big assignments as we hung out or walked between classes. My students don’t have this peer support.

What do you think? Am I a supporters or an enabler? Am I hand-holding too much? Please share you opinion in the comments.

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