Async, Not Absent: Strategies for successful implementation of asynchronous courses

Asynchronous courses often present challenges in fostering student engagement, as learners may feel disconnected from both the instructor and the course material. Compounding this issue, instructors enter online teaching with varying levels of experience in adapting their pedagogy to effectively engage students in a virtual environment, often lacking the necessary facilitation techniques for asynchronous learning. These instructional struggles can further diminish the student experience. This article aims to support online instructors by highlighting strategies and opportunities to enhance their teaching in asynchronous courses. Specifically, it will provide practical suggestions for creating an engaging and interactive course environment. The ultimate goal is to help instructors cultivate enriching asynchronous learning spaces where students actively engage with their peers, feel connected to their instructor and coursework, and perceive asynchronous learning as a highly effective and desirable educational experience.