Online Instruction: How Can Media Richness Theory and Social Presence Theory Help Me Improve?

Attrition rates are 10% to 20% higher in online courses than their face-to-face counterparts. While online course formats offer convenient methods of instruction, poor course development often leads to high attrition rates. This facilitated discussion explores how applying Media Richness Theory (MRT) and Social Presence Theory to online course design and instruction can aid overall program retention and student satisfaction.