Sarcasm and humor are easily misinterpreted and therefore should be avoided unless you know your students well. Negative comments that offer no help can only discourage students. Please keep in mind that our students are studying under a wide range of circumstances. Many are overcoming enormous odds to be enrolled in your course. Your comments and attentive responses may make more difference in the lives of your students than you will ever know.
Students like to know exactly what is being counted wrong.
If you are grading on a point system, indicate exactly why points are being deducted. Many courses contain lessons that are mechanically scored in the Distance Education Center. These lessons are scored, and feedback is returned to the student within two working days of receipt. Prompt grading of lessons is essential for effective independent learning. Research indicates that slow lesson return is a major reason why students either do not complete or do not enjoy distance learning courses.