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Lesson: Before the Course

Objective:

After completing this lesson, you will be able to describe why and how to communicate with participants before the start of the course.

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Topic 1: The Welcome Email

If the course you are facilitating is 100% online, your first contact will likely be by email. Send a welcome email message a week in advance of the course start. This accomplishes the following important goals:

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Topic 1: The Welcome Email

• Officially begins your relationship with participants• Reminds participants when the course will open and

close so they begin to think about planning their time• Sets the tone for the course • Emphasizes the value of learner voices and input• Sets expectations for communications, including how

and when participants can contact you, and the schedule of assignments

• Communicates resources and contacts for content and technical support so potential barriers to participation can be addressed right away

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Topic 1: The Welcome Email

• Refer to the Facilitating Moodle Courses Materials you downloaded at the beginning to find the Welcome Message Example.

Your course may be hybrid, beginning with a face-to-face session that is followed by an online session. Send a message as soon as possible after the face-to-face session (the same day is best) in order to address the relevant goals listed above.