Remembering and visualizing each student can be a challenge. It can take real work on the part of the instructor to maintain ongoing awareness of the differences and progress of all students. There is always the risk of backing off from the individualized interaction as time constraints pressure the instructor. Photographs or even hand drawings of students, with notes attached, can be posted near the instructor's computer as an effective memory aid method. Online motivation of students is important.
Social informality is important to demonstrate and encourage.