Data-Driven Design Strategies to Stop the Drop

Life happens—and sometimes it throws a wrench in students’ best-laid plans. Whether it’s a family emergency or an unexpected work commitment, being flexible can make all the difference in helping students stay enrolled and engaged.

Use your LMS to track student activity:Set up automated alerts for students with low login activity. With AI, you can create pre-drafted emails for different scenarios—like when students haven’t logged in recently, missed assignments, or have low participation. This combination of automated data tracking and pre-written emails saves you time and ensures students receive timely support.

Flexibility in Due Dates: Consider allowing a grace period for assignments or offering flexible deadlines when appropriate. This small adjustment can ease stress during tough times and keep students from falling behind. Prepare an extension policy and provide students with the forms they’ll need to make time-sensitive issues easy to communicate. What some templates?

Check out our Contingency Planning Guide for steps on building and communicating your  Grace Period and Extension policy.

Many online students are balancing full-time jobs with their coursework. Respecting their time and helping them plan effectively can boost their success. Faculty can incorporate various strategies, including,

• Ample Time Between Assessments: Give students breathing room between major assessments. This reduces stress and helps them balance work, family, and coursework.
• Consistent Grading and Communication: Stick to a predictable grading time frame. Students feel more secure when they know when to expect feedback and when they can reach out for clarification.
• Time Management Worksheets: Provide clear estimates of how long learning materials and assessments will take them each week. Students can better manage their time when they have a realistic sense of the workload.  

Want to create a quick document for your students? Check out our Student Time Management Planning Worksheet!

For many students, the cost of education can be a significant hurdle. Keeping expenses in check helps keep their financial well-being at the forefront.

• Low or No-Cost Materials: Whenever possible, use Open Educational (OERs) or low-cost materials. This can save students hundreds of dollars per course. Risepoint has resources that can help you get started finding what you need.
• Avoid Unexpected Expenses: Be upfront and try to avoid any about any required purchases at the start of the course. Surprise costs can strain students’ budgets and impact their decision to continue.
• Promote Financial Resources: Highlight information about scholarships, financial aid, and emergency funds available through your institution. Many students aren’t aware of these options and could benefit from the extra support but can easily find out through a course announcement.

Mental health challenges are common among students, especially those balancing multiple responsibilities. A supportive course environment can make a big difference.

• Highlight Institutional Services: Include links to your university’s mental health services, counseling, and other resources in your syllabus and course announcements. Encourage students to use these services when needed.
• Be Present as an Instructor: Your presence matters. Regularly participate in discussions, send encouraging messages, and be responsive to student inquiries. This engagement helps students feel supported and less isolated.
• Encourage Peer Connections: Create opportunities for students to interact with one another. Whether through discussion boards, peer review activities, or optional study groups, building a sense of community can provide a strong support system.
• Monitor and Respond Quickly: Be ready to step in if you notice signs of distress or disengagement. A timely response can make a big difference in helping a student feel seen and supported.

Want to know more about setting up support for mental health in your course and in your check ins? Check out our Supporting Student Mental Health page.