Hi Cyndy,
I think you make a great point that as instructors we need to be non judgemental, and supportive, especially I have found with struggling students. I have found when I have reached out to these students by phone in for example, week 1, and can share some of the struggles I personally experienced as an online student, they feel more comfortable and confindent. They will also reach out with questions or concerns because of my genuine interest in their success that I have expressed.
