Building a Supportive Environment in Online Learning at FSW — Dr. Heather Olson

Online learning at FSW offers incredible flexibility, but staying connected can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. That’s why we’re committed to creating a supportive environment where students feel a strong sense of belonging and connection. One way to foster that support is by joining spaces like FSW’s Discord server. Here, students share everything from recipes to pet photos, and it’s a place where conversations go beyond academics, reminding you that you’re part of a larger community. Similarly, our Online Student GroupMe is a quick, convenient way to ask questions and receive almost immediate feedback, creating a bridge between you and your peers.

Of course, a supportive environment doesn’t just happen outside of class — it’s built into your learning experience. Group projects, as challenging as they may feel, are a key way to collaborate and connect. Video-based discussions also help bring faces and voices into the digital classroom, fostering deeper engagement and understanding. These elements create opportunities to interact in meaningful ways that mimic in-person connections, helping to break down the barriers of isolation that online learning can sometimes bring.

Finally, FSW’s robust resources are here to support your academic journey. Whether you need 24/7 tutoring through BrainFuse or confidence-building tools like Packback to refine your writing, we’ve got you covered. These tools, combined with the encouragement to ask questions and engage with your instructors, ensure that you never have to navigate this experience alone. At FSW, we’re not just delivering education — we’re creating a community where every student can thrive.