As we head into the summer months, it is time to begin planning for the fall semester. I'm sure most of us are in the wait-and-see category as we try to navigate what the autumn semester will look like. I have some tips are you prepare for planning mode.
1. Be flexible. I know this is something that might seem second nature since this time last year, but I think it is important to keep that in mind as we transition to some new things for the next school year. It's easy to stay stuck in what we've been doing the last year or think I will simply transition back to what we did before the pandemic. It will likely not be somewhere in the middle so be flexible and open to trying new things.
2. Get creative. As we are trying to offer more ways to engage students, it is again so important that we don't get comfortable or stagnant with what we did last fall. There are likely more ways to better engage students this fall. It's also important to keep in mind that most students now have at least a year of Zoom or online style classes. That means you can try more interactive tools like breakout rooms, using padlet, creating Kahoot quizzes, etc. Don't be afraid to try new things.
3. Take some time to recharge. No really. Take some time off. Step away from your computer and do something to help yourself recharge. This past year, it has been easier than ever to work through lunch or answer an email after hours. For me working from home has meant the balance of work and life balance has become blurry. It is important to use some of your time off to step away so you can come back revitalized this fall.
4. Give yourself some grace. As we continue to try to navigate returning to campus, a combination of online and in-person classes, and ever-changing directives from leadership, it is important to remember you are doing the best you can. Please find a support system both in and outside of work so you can be sure to keep your mental health in check.
While this next academic year is sure to also be one full of nuances and pivoting, it is important to remember we are all in this together.
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