Of course, there are many factors that make it a little more difficult to learn and remember student names online (only seeing students for a limited period, age etc.) but when possible, it is worth the time and effort. Not only does it show respect and care but it also helps keep them engaged with the lesson. A 2017 study on the importance of students perceiving that an instructor knows their name can be best summarised by the following quote: “I know there are close to 200 kids in this class and I’m not in any way a top student or someone special, but I sure felt like I was when the instructor knew my name.”
Although it takes a little extra time and can be uncomfortable, unless you’ve been repeatedly called by name that isn’t your own, you may not understand how much it can mean for someone to make the effort to say your name correctly. Ask your students what they want to be called, try a combination of the above tips and ultimately, just give it your best try. Even if you don’t get it exactly right, your students will respond to the effort.