Feeling safe is a prerequisite for learning. In the online environment, safety is about more than tech security—it’s about trust, respect, and emotional presence.
In Creating a Sense of Presence in Online Teaching, we describe the subtle ways instructors can foster this type of environment.
Some ideas:
- Use inclusive discussion guidelines: Encourage diverse voices and respectful disagreement.
- Acknowledge life challenges: When students face difficulties, respond with compassion and flexibility.
- Celebrate effort: Highlight persistence, not just perfect performance.
When students feel emotionally secure, they are more likely to participate, take intellectual risks, and build relationships with content and peers.
Lehman, R. M., & Conceição, S. C. (2010). Creating a Sense of Presence in Online Teaching: How to “Be There” for Distance Learners. Jossey-Bass.
How do you create emotionally safe spaces in your courses? Let’s talk about it in the online forum.
