Lots of work is needed to be able to do what is ask of the individual.
Currently I already do this. I actually am very good at prioritizing and working out my tasks based on importance and urgency. Iv'e been a chef for many years and have repeatedley had to serve large numbers (sometimes over a thousand) within a very limited time frame. If this wasn't a skill I already possessed I wouldn't be able to make that happen.
I was surprised to learn that I do tend to do the less important tasks first, because they are quicker and easier to get done. After reading module 1 I realize the importance of completing the more important tasks first, and putting off the one's that are not of specific importance at the time. I will be bringing this subject up at our next faculty meeting as I believe it will help my co-workers be more efficient instructors as well.
I tend to jump from task to task.But after reading through this,Isee that I am doing things all wrong,and making it harder on my self and students.wow time to chang things.THANKS.
I have learned that it is okay to revise my to do list and the reprioritizing is necessary if you want to be available for spontaneity.
Yes, office noise can be quite the distraction Harris! Being vocal is the key. We've got to communicate what's working for us and what's not in order to create the environment that works best for us.
I have a tendancy to put off tasks I do not want to do. I would like to think that what I've learned in this module will change the order in which I accomplish important and urgent tasks in the future, but I am realistic. I know myself and know that I've tried to change in this area. I'm not always successful, yet I keep on trying!
Yes, sometimes it's nice to prioritize on site -- as tasks come in Anthony. This works particularly well for the busiest instructors.
I have a history of procrastination so this module definitely gave me some new ideas on how to be more proactive in organizing my priorities. I have indentified that office noise is a big issue for me not completing task and I have made small steps to minimize these issues. Being vocal and open about it helped me. Thank you for asking the right question.
Sadly, I usually put the task which I find unbearable off for last. This usually forces me into some sort of time crunch. I do like the idea of a “to do†list, but for some reason can never follow them. I think I will make use of this technique in the future.
It helps to prrioritize in the class room, as it allows instructors to stay on course
Yes, setting expectations is the key Jessica and it sounds like you've got that down. Our students do not necessarily need immediate feedback. They just need clear expectations on when feedback is coming.
I am one of those instructors that wants to get the test graded immediately. That is something that I need to work on. My students have come to expect that of me. I am learning that it is ok to tell my students that they will get there test scores at the next class meeting instead of NOW.
Sounds like you have the right approach Diane! Yes, do give regular updating a try if it makes sense based on your workload.
I will start making to do lists and updating them. I already make them but really never thought about updating them weekly.
Diane
I am very good at making the "to do" list.
Sometimes I tend to be overly optimistic but I usually am able to redirect my efforts so as not to become frustrated.
Periodic assessment and self evaluation helps me to constantly strive for improvement in my efforts
Hi Tanya,
I wish you success in your spreading out the accomplishment of your tasks. This is a common situation for us instructors so if we are going to survive we are going to have to be able to create some management skills to enable our tasks to be completed in an efficient way.
Gary
I believe I am fairly capable of task prioritization but I did discover that I definitely fall into area described in this module is the Obstacle of Immediacy. I truly never realized that that could be problem as well. I want to accomplish everything right when it needs to be accomplished and as the module described, it can be exhausting. I now understand that this is an issue and that I need to find good time management skills to find that balance between procrastination and immediacy.
Hi Jeff,
You are doing a good job of working through the stress of your job with the medical situation you have. By being able to function at all and teach like you do you are showing real spirit. Keep that spirit especially on the days that the back wins.
Gary
Unfortunately, I tend to put tasks off rather than complete them right away. I am easily distracted and I start multiple tasks without completing one of them. I really like the idea of writing down a to-do list. I think keeping this list will help me tremendously. Seeing items become checked off of the list will give me a feeling of accomplishment. My biggest hurdle will be avoiding distractions such as the television and the Internet. I can use these items as rewards as items are completed on the list.
