The Importance of Effectively Wrapping Up Your Teaching Semester: A Time-Efficient Guide for Professors
Marina Silva-Opps
Empowering Academics to Build Resilience, Prevent Burnout, and Achieve Career and Entrepreneurial Goals; Strategic LinkedIn Profile Optimization; Expert in Strategic Career Transition and Professional Development.
May marks the end of teaching semesters for most professors (at least in North America), with summer providing an opportunity to focus on research and writing. While it's tempting to shift gears immediately, it's crucial to invest some time in wrapping up teaching activities effectively.
In this article, I share my streamlined, time-efficient approach to assessing your teaching performance and ensuring a smooth transition to summer research and writing projects.
1.?Reflect on the Past Semester (2-3 hours)
Although your classes may have ended a few weeks ago, it's not too late to analyze your teaching performance. Think about what you have achieved and any difficulties you faced by considering these 3 questions and use your insights to plan courses in the future.
2.?????Analyze Collected Feedback (2-3 hours)
If you have already gathered student feedback through evaluations or other means, take the time to review it. Look for trends and recurring themes that can guide you in making necessary course adjustments.
3.?????Efficiently Update Course Materials (5-10 hours)
With the time limit in mind, give the most attention to updating important course materials such as the syllabus, lecture slides, assignments, and exams. Focus on incorporating feedback and addressing any significant changes in your field. Streamlining this process will save time when the new academic year starts.
4.?????Organize Your Files and Documents (2-4 hours)
Spend a few hours sorting through your physical and digital files. Archive old materials and create a folder system for the upcoming academic year. This organization will make it easier for you to find the documents you need and enhance your workflow in the future.
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5.?????Set Goals for the Upcoming Academic Year (1-2 hours)
Establish clear objectives for your courses, research, and professional development. Setting clear objectives will help steer your work and keep your attention throughout the year.
6.?????Plan for Professional Development (2-3 hours)
While the summer is an excellent time to focus on research and writing, it's still crucial to plan for professional development. Identify workshops, conferences, or webinars you can attend during the summer months to stay current in your field and learn new teaching techniques.
Taking the time to effectively wrap up teaching activities is essential, even if it's already May and classes have ended. If you commit to a least 14 to 25 hours of the tasks suggested in this article, it will have a big impact on the success of your future courses.
Reflecting on your teaching performance and implementing changes based on feedback and self-assessment can help ensure a smooth transition into summer research and writing projects while setting the stage for a successful new academic year.
If you found this article helpful or would like to learn more about how I can support your academic career and writing journey, please don't hesitate to get in touch! Visit my website or contact me directly to discover how my coaching services can help you excel in your professional endeavours. Let's work together to achieve your goals!