Management of Time
It is critical that instructors manage their time so that they can prepare the necessary handouts, etc. for each class session. I ask the question, how does an instructor manage time when they have multiple classes?
I agree Melissa that there may be some consequences to this type of rigid schedule; however, I have to admit that after reading Charles' comment, it actually seemed very appealing to me- especially in regards to "procrastination". If you set aside specific windows of time for each type of task, it seems as though it would be harder to avoid doing certain tasks? I'm very new to teaching and I teach multiple courses at the same time- all subjects which I am refamiliarizing myself with as well-so, it's alot of work and very time consuming. I'm grateful for this course as I think it will really help me in feeling more "in control" of my schoolwork!
Charles, Wow, it sounds like you have a highly regimented way of managing your time. On one hand, I bet this approach makes you quite effective in the workplace and able to accomplish most all of your tasks. On the other, I am curious to hear more about the impact that this approach has on your stress level. I have watched instructors who have gone both ways on this question. Some experience reduced stress because everything feels organized an accounted for. Others are plagued by issues with immediacy and are not able to enjoy anything else in life.
Dr. Melissa Read
Time management is all about scheduling. Make the time. I know my 24 hours, and as a type A personality, I plan out what each hour or half hour should entail. I try to leave Friday and Saturday "loose," but Monday through Friday means work, and all activities must have their time. Currently, planning is from 9 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. grading is on Fridays between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. While it lacks spontaneity, it is a management tool. Plan and prepare, and then resolve yourself to the schedule even if it's uncomfortable.
Gloria, Instructor prep days are wonderful. I find that these are not always available to participants of my course, but enjoy them if you've got them!
Dr. Melissa Read
I had multiple classes that were different topics and I would catch up on grading and preparing handouts during keyboarding time. I would also make copies during the 10 and 20 minute breaks if I was free. Otherwise I had to use personal time to keep current. One other way to save time is to prepare for the next course ahead of time during an instructor prep day. When all the copies of everything are made and in an organized fashion, it takes the stress out of teaching.
Joel, That's a great question. It often depends on whether those classes have the same course content or if they are unique. Some instructors teach the same course repeatedly. For them, managing through multiple classes is often easy because materials can be reused. Things get more complicated when we teach different kinds of classes. This kind of schedule because much more of a balancing act.
Dr. Melissa Read
