Short-term summer courses present a unique challenge: how can instructors build meaningful student engagement in such a compressed timeframe? In a traditional 15-week semester, there is time for community to develop organically. In short term courses, such as 3-week online Maymesters, engagement must be intentional, structured, and embedded from day one.
Here are three evidence-informed strategies to help you foster connection and participation in your online summer courses:
1. Start with Presence, Not Content
Before jumping into the syllabus, take some time to humanize the course. A welcome video, a simple introduction forum, or even a “get to know your instructor” message can set a tone of approachability. Students are more likely to engage when they see you as a real, responsive person rather than a static figure behind their screen.
2. Structure for Consistency
Consistency is key to reducing cognitive overload in fast-paced formats. Use a modular structure where each week or unit follows a predictable pattern—e.g., watch, read, discuss, submit. This helps students build a routine quickly and makes it easier for them to participate meaningfully, especially if they are balancing work or other summer responsibilities.
3. Make Participation Purposeful
In short term courses, engagement must be relevant. Use targeted discussion prompts, reflection journals, or low-stakes quizzes that align closely with learning outcomes. Consider tools like collaborative Google Docs, Flip, or Canvas discussion boards to create space for asynchronous peer interaction that feels substantive rather than performative.
Ultimately, student engagement in condensed online terms is less about flashy tools and more about thoughtful design. When you prioritize clarity, connection, and consistency, you create a learning environment where students can thrive—even in just a few weeks.
Upcoming Events
Workshop Wednesday: Time-Saving Teaching Tools in Canvas
Wednesday, May 28, 2025 1:30-2:30pm
Join us for our “Workshop Wednesday: Time-Saving Teaching Tools in Canvas” presentation on Wednesday, May 28th, from 1:30-2:30 pm! Making the most of Canvas will free you up to focus on your teaching and students. This workshop will cover a variety of time-saving tips, tricks, settings, and analytics you can utilize to make the most of your time in Canvas. When registering, please include any questions you have about this training topic.
Facilitated by Millie Tullis, Digital Learning Strategist.
Register here to receive the Zoom link.
Applying the Community of Inquiry Framework in Online Learning
Wednesday, June 4, 2025 1:30-2:30pm
Join us for our “Applying the Community of Inquiry Framework in Online Learning” presentation on June 4, from 1:30-2:30 pm! This training session will introduce you to the Community of Inquiry Framework and provide helpful tips and strategies for incorporating social, cognitive, and teaching presence in your online course. When registering, please include any questions you have about this training topic.
Facilitated by Leslie Fuller, Digital Learning Strategist.
Register here to receive the Zoom link.
Clemson Online Summer 2025 Events Calendar
Review our Summer 2025 Events Calendar to see what Online Instruction Development opportunities await!
We have a robust lineup of topics and live training formats to support your use of Canvas and other e-learning tools. Topics cover demonstrations of using Kaltura, engaging your students, and workshops to get your Canvas site ready to teach!
All of our live training is recorded. Registrants will automatically receive a link to that day’s video after it has been processed.
Contact Millie Tullis with any questions regarding these sessions.
Clemson Online – Where Tech and Teaching Meet
