Tips for communicating with students in online classes

Quality communication in teaching begins with getting to know students better. This can be achieved with short surveys or questionnaires before or at the very beginning of a course. Electronic tools (such as Google Forms, Microsoft Forms, Moodle surveys, or Mentimeter) make it easier to collect data. With a survey, the teacher can find out which communication channels are most suitable for students, what challenges they expect, and what they want to achieve during the semester. This makes it easier to adapt teaching and show concern for different needs. In addition to practical information, a survey also sends an important message to students: their opinions are valid and teaching is based on mutual understanding. Such an approach encourages student engagement and active participation in the learning process from the beginning.