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Success in a distance learning class depends upon the students being self-motivated and determined. It is easy for them to get discouraged because there is no teacher in the classroom for them to ask questions when they become confused. Some become intimidated at the prospect of calling for help. Some are alone in their classes. Some feel no need to interact because they are watching "television." Here are but a few suggestions for helping your students succeed. Not all of them fit all situations.

1. The first two weeks of class deal with orientation, Latin influences in our life today, and review of Latin I material. The review is student-driven. Each will find his/her weak point from the material in the first mailing you receive. Students will be able to pace themselves. I will address the more troublesome segments on the air, but by and large, students are in control of this review. The other materials I mentioned are all important, but they do not necessarily have to be addressed at the beginning of the year.
   
2. Encourage a cooperative environment in which students help one another (except on graded quizzes and tests, of course). Some students have met at one anothers' homes to review tapes and study before a test.
   
3. Encourage students to be verbal. Answer questions aloud in class...shout out responses...play the games...sing the songs.
   
4. Require students to call the teacher, or a classmate for assignments when they have been absent. If they keep up with the coursework, they will have more confidence. Each day's assignment is also available on the syllabus and Internet.
   
5. Encourage students to call me. I am usually available till 4:30 or 5:00 p.m. ET. Calls made to the 800# prior to 8:30 a.m. and after 4:30 p.m. will need to enter the 4-digit extension 7133 in order to reach me. If I am not available, stay on the line and leave a voice mail.
   
6. Notify me when students receive awards or do something notable. I will recognize their achievements on the Internet.
   
7. Encourage students to join JCL, enter foreign language competitions, take the National Latin Exam in March, and participate in your school's foreign language week. Students can call me for help with planning the events.
   
8. Have students participate in promoting distance learning by writing articles about their experience for the school or local paper. Find a bulletin board or display case where students' projects can be displayed. Send holiday cards in Latin to staff members at the school.
   
9. Call me if you have a particular morale problem. One unhappy person can be a catalyst which can bring down an entire group. Often personal contact can help.