Achieving a Working Balance Between Technology and Personal Contact Within a Classroom Environment

Abstract

This chapter addresses the author’s model to assist faculty members in gaining a closer relationship with distance learning students. The model that will be discussed consists of a greeting, message, reminder, and conclusion (GMRC). The GMRC will provide concrete recommendations designed to lead the faculty through the four steps. Using these steps in writing and responding to electronic messages demonstrates to the distance learning student that in fact the faculty member is concerned with each learner and the learner’s specific questions and needs. It is a practical application of human relations theory and is based on ideas generated by counseling theory. In addition, the chapter will take the reader through issues and examples that will arise during the duration of discussions and exchange of information using electronic messages. It is the intent of the author to provide not simply a theoretical model, but a model that can be learned and applied immediately upon completion of reviewing the article.