Ending Online Courses on a High: The Art of Parting Ways with Students

In the fast-paced world of online education, where lectures blur into virtual discussions and assignments stream through cyberspace, the conclusion of a course often feels like the flick of a switch. Yet, what if we considered the end not merely as a cessation but as a crescendo? 

As instructors, we devote ourselves to imparting knowledge, fostering growth, and nurturing a community of learners. However, in the rush to cover curriculum and meet deadlines, the significance of bidding farewell on a positive note can sometimes be overlooked. Eggleston & Smith (2002) argue that intentional techniques employed during the concluding moments of an online course can yield multifaceted benefits that ripple far beyond the final login.

Embracing these techniques offers more than just a ceremonial closure; it provides emotional and psychological fulfillment for both instructors and students alike. By weaving together moments of reflection, summarization, and encouragement, instructors can effectively pave the way for a smooth transition out of the course, mitigating the often-palpable end-of-semester awkwardness that permeates virtual classrooms. 

The act of parting ways serves as a great way to summarize key concepts and revisit pivotal moments in the learning journey. It becomes a platform to celebrate achievements, instilling within students a profound sense of accomplishment that transcends mere grades.

The benefits extend beyond the immediate conclusion of the course. A well-executed farewell can ignite sparks of curiosity, prompting students to delve deeper into the subject matter or even pursue related avenues of study. Thus, the end of one course becomes the catalyst for the beginning of myriad intellectual explorations.

The parting ways technique fosters a stronger connection between faculty and students, nurturing a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect that endures long after the digital classroom doors have closed. It transforms the instructor from a disseminator of information into a mentor, guide, and confidant.

Implementation Strategies:
1. Take the time to simply say “goodbye” and “thank you” to students. You may record a farewell video or write a letter thanking students for their contributions and hard work in the class.

2. Have students write a reflection that describes what they have learned and how they have grown and developed during the course. Some potential questions include (Hardy, 2021):
- What are you better at now than you were at the beginning of the semester?
- What are you most proud of that you accomplished in this course? Why does this make you proud?

3. Ask current students to pass the torch by writing or recording videos offering advice to future students in this course. For example, students could share the most important topics they learned or the strategies that were successful in helping them learn.

4. You may consider raffling off a t-shirt, mug, or other items. The t-shirt could be creative with examples of related topics such as “I passed Technology in Criminal Justice class,” “Ask me about Cybercrimes”, or other course topics.

5. Celebrate student work by recognizing significant accomplishments. Provide an opportunity for students to showcase their final projects or best work through a gallery walk, or showcase.

 
References

Eggleston, T. J., & Smith, G. E. (2002). Parting ways: Ending your course. APS Observer, 15(3).

Hardy, J. (2021, May 3). End-of-the-year reflection: Tools for validation, celebration, gratitude and planning ahead. MyVU News.