Instructors should ensure that their course asks students to post a self-introduction to the Discussion Board. This exercise serves three important purposes. 


1. It helps the instructor know that their students have started their course work and they know how to use this important communication feature. 
2. Student introductions help to build a sense of community amongst the class and to encourage more active participation in future.
3. It gives the instructor a good understanding of the level of student knowledge/experience. Many students come with considerable experience and having students add a little about their background in the introduction can help the instructor understand their student’s current knowledge levels.

We have already suggested that this request be added to the welcome message. It is helpful to include it again in the Getting Started section and also as a reminder activity in the first lesson.