Orientation Class

According to Sloan-C.org, Saint Leo University has instituted a mandatory, free 8-week orientation course to introduce first-term enrolled students to e-learning policies, procedures and support services. Students mentors serve as peer support, along with a faculty facilitator.
According to the effective practices page, "Such strategic efforts reduce the amount of frustration students can experience in their first term, develop critical thinking/learning skills, and improve their unfolding educational experience, resulting in clearer expectations and effective learning"
Evidently, since the program has been in place, the Center for Online Learning has seen an increase in retention rates.

Although this may fall under the category of "access issues". I think it is important in regards to academic self-efficacy. Students who understand the procedures of online learning and know where they can get help are more likely to feel confident in their abilities, hopefully more active in their academic community, and more likely not to drop out.