Suggestion #2: Remind students of the best way to contact you and when they can expect a response.

When I see someone saying, “I’m panicking and my instructor doesn’t respond to my emails,” I think there could be two things happening. One is that the instructor has overlooked the student’s email. But it’s more often the case that the student and instructor have different expectations for a timely response. Letting your students know how to reach you and when they can expect to hear back from you helps to lower both their anxiety and the pressure you feel to respond quickly.

----------------------

Example Communication Message:

Communication is really important during times of high uncertainty. The best way to reach me is by email (first.last@ndsu.edu). I’ll get back to you within 24 hours during the week, or 48 hours on the weekend. For quicker responses, I recommend emailing me right before my
virtual office hours (4-5 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays), or dropping by during that time.

-------------------------

Check back tomorrow for more tips on managing an overwhelming amount of email.

** Tips and suggestions provided by Dr. Carrie Anne Platt, associate director College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences