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[yatchie]

We are 1.5 weeks from the end of my online class.  One student, who I'm pretty sure has not been putting in that much work has sent me about 10 emails in the last twelve hours complaining that there is a huge disconnect between my online lectures, the text, the homework, and my quizzes and tests.  He claims that he knows that he's not the only one that doesn't get it -- everyone else must be totally confused too.  My class is jeopardizing his admissions into a graduate program.  Well, he's actually the only student who missed the boat on this (besides the two that haven't done any homework or anything else in the course).  I'm going over the quizzes now and pretty much everyone has the basics down.

I really want to say, "Speak for yourself because everyone else figured it out.  Plus, if you showed up for the MANDATORY orientation, you would have heard first hand from someone who took the course how important [details student is missing] are."  In my post-midterm survey, he admitted that he did not read the text (where all the details he's missing are). 

So... any advice on how to spin this back on him _nicely_?  I would appreciate any ideas before I send off something I'll regret :)  Thanks.

[lab_gal]

I would emphasize that the details about the course structure, content, etc, are in the syllabus. Explain that the same standards are being applied to all of the students in the class. Reiterate that you are happy to be a resource for him regarding the course material, but he needs to come to you with specific content-related questions.

[larryc]

Don't spend a lot of time in your reply, as a long reply will signal the start of negotiations.

"Dear Snookums: I am sorry that you are having difficulties with the course. I have just finished grading the class assignments and I am pleased that most of the class is mastering the material. Perhaps you got behind when you missed the orientation meeting? Please let me know how I can help you on the remaining assignments."

Or simply the first and last sentences.

[yatchie]

Perfect!  Thanks for the suggestions.