This project introduces an AI-afforded bichronous pedagogy of care to enhance social presence among students in an online Organizational Behavior course within a fully online master’s program at an unnamed, leading Canadian university. Anchored in compassion (Burke & Larmar, 2021) and leveraging synchronous/asynchronous modalities (Martin et al., 2020), the approach addresses the engagement gap between online and face-to-face learning. By incorporating AI-driven "micro-coaching" sessions, the pedagogy supports teamwork through key milestones, such as drafting a "care-centered team contract" and completing collaborative projects. Drawing from three graduate student cohorts, the study demonstrates how a blend of AI nudges, instructor-led real- time check-ins, and empathy-driven design fosters community, improves team accountability, and supports well-being. This interactive session equips attendees with strategies to incorporate an AI "assistant coach" into their bichronous course designs, enabling more inclusive, supportive, and humanized online learning environments.
This session is part of the Teaching and Learning Conference (TLC@AOM). Space is limited; separate complimentary TLC@AOM pre-registration on a first-come, first-served basis is required. The TLC@AOM registration deadline is 27 July 2025, unless sold out. Register for TLC@AOM.
