Organization
I try to complete tasks like copying term lists, medication list, and coding lists before the term begins so I can concintrate on the thinks that come up daily.
Bakhriya, It's wonderful to plan far in advance. Planning before the term can make us feel like we are on top of things. This feeling can give us great confidence when the term begins.
Dr. Melissa Read
i am also like to prepare my planning list before new term begins
Lorena, I understand where you are coming from. Sometimes simply making a point to review your list on a daily basis can help. I recommend at least looking at the list once per morning.
Dr. Melissa Read
I don't mind doing the lists and checking things off but the hardest thing about organization for me is sticking to it? Any recommendations on how to stick to a new routine?
Roger, So true. A little up front investment in organization can lead to an amazing long term return.
Dr. Melissa Read
Roger, Excellent to hear. Over the years, I have had several students in this class mention how great this tool is. Go for it.
Dr. Melissa Read
Organization is so important. It is amazing how smoothly my day flows when I am organized.
I am going to start using engrade. I am a little leery of new technologies, but have heard such good things about it.
Amy, That is so true. It's wonderful to see you leading by example! That's often times the most powerful teaching method.
Dr. Melissa Read
I prepare all hand outs ahead of time also. I've learned that students really enjoy instructors who are organized. It also sets an example for the students.
I recently began using engrade and will continue with expanding on my uses. It seems to be a wonderful tool to not only keep me organized but to prepare for times when I can get side tracked with requests from students.
George, Sounds like you have been open to learning about new systems that keep you on track and have discovered a few great ones. Your openness to new approaches will likely get you far. Sometimes we have to keep an open mind and look to other tools and people who have already figured out how to make our jobs easier.
Dr. Melissa Read
Diane, That is wonderful to hear. There are so many great tools out there that are designed to make our jobs easier. Investing just a little time in learning to use them can make a significant impact on our work lives as we move forward.
Dr. Melissa Read
Engrade has made me far more productive and the students love it.
I agree with the Engrade system as a digital gradebook to stay organized. I swear by the GTD system now and feel that I am more productive.
I have utilized Engrade as much as I can. The potential is enormous for getting organized. The Engrade quizzes are simple and easy to use. If your campus doesn't use Engrade, you may be using another grading software that is just as good.
Organization is essential. Before the begining of each quarter I prepare a student hand out for each of my classes. This includes what each lecture will include, assignments and due dates, exam dates and final project explantion and due date. This helps me to stay on track with respect to completing all required course work. Plus, it helps me teach my students the value of time management and the importance of planning. If a student claims they did not know about a test or assignment, I refer them to the hand out they received at the begining of the quarter.
