Build Community Online

Community Builder Brainstorm

Imagine you’re teaching an online course.
Scenario: You notice some students are hesitant to engage, and others seem disconnected.

Your Challenge:
In 60 seconds, brainstorm two creative ideas to make your virtual classroom feel more welcoming and connected.

Examples to Spark Your Thinking:

Icebreaker prompts for the first session.
Fun polls or quick activities to start each class.
Ways to encourage students to connect outside of class.

After completing your brainstorm, scroll down to see tips and strategies to enhance community in your online classroom.

Building Connection and Community in Online Learning

Online learning can make social interaction challenging for both students and instructors. Delayed feedback, limited casual interactions, and feelings of isolation can affect students’ sense of belonging. However, creative approaches can help build strong online communities, encourage peer interaction, and support underserved students.

Start with a Technology and Access Survey

Use tools like to understand your students' technology access and learning needs.
Ask students about internet reliability, shared home spaces, and their preferences for participating in Zoom or online activities.

Co-Create Classroom Norms

Collaborate with students to set expectations for online interactions.
Be mindful that some students may not feel comfortable turning on their cameras or sharing their workspace.
Examples of norms to discuss:
- Whether cameras are required or optional.
- Methods for asking questions (e.g., chat, hand-raising, polling tools).
- How to handle leaving a session early.
Gather input using or shared . Co-created norms build trust and ensure buy-in.

Incorporate Warm-Ups and Informal Moments

Start each session with a quick check-in or "temperature check."
Ask students to rename themselves on Zoom with their pronouns, name, and a fun response to a prompt (e.g., "Name + Your favorite hobby").
Use quick polls or nonverbal feedback (like thumbs up/down) to gauge understanding.

Make Synchronous Time Engaging

Utilize chat features for quick questions and informal participation.
Use tools like or for anonymous feedback or live polls.
Create informal spaces for interaction, such as GroupMe threads or Slack channels, managed by a TA or Learning Assistant.

Be Accessible and Flexible

Stay after class for informal Q&A or casual conversations.
Encourage students to communicate in ways that work for them — chat, email, or discussion boards.
Be transparent about your requests and the reasoning behind them to foster trust.

With a little planning and intentionality, you can transform your online course into a welcoming and connected learning environment.

CTL Resources

Building Student-Student Relationships – A CTL Guide (PDF)

(Google Form)

Prepare for Class via Zoom (CTL webpage)

Engage Students & Gather Feedback (CTL webpage)

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