M1: Managing your workload and your wellbeing

As you begin to prepare for teaching your online course, you will be aware that there are many things to do and consider. While you are likely familiar with the course content, it's likely that you will need to update some content, create some new material (e.g. a personal message to welcome students to the course), grade assignments, moderate discussions, submit grades, and so many other things during the term! You may also need to become more proficient with some learning technologies.

Thinking about everything that needs to be done can be overwhelming, and so we encourage you to prioritize managing your workload and planning for taking care of your own wellbeing. A few tips to help you are:

• Set reasonable work hours for yourself by scheduling time for working on your online course. In your calendar, schedule regular times during the week to check and send student emails, post documents, hold online class discussions, and hold online office hours. Planning to complete all of these activities during regular business hours can help you to support your wellbeing.
• Communicate clear expectations to students for email response times and the times when you will be available to respond to questions (see M2: Engaging with your students).
• Consider using tools such as rubrics and the speedgrader in Canvas to reduce the amount of time you spend grading assignments (see M2: Feedback and assessment).
• Take breaks, even when you don’t think you need them or have the time.
• Explore ways to take care of yourself and resources to help you thrive (move more, sleep soundly, eat well, give back, say "hi").