Teaching Tips: Making the Most of Summer Break

For most faculty, summer is a break from teaching and a chance to recharge. But it is also an opportunity to take time to reflect on your teaching, which can be difficult to do during the hectic pace of the academic year. Make the most of your summer and set yourself up for a great fall term with these simple tips. 

Start Early 

After grading is finished, we are all ready for a break. But after a few days off, consider getting your fall syllabi and Canvas courses built in May. Since you just finished teaching, ideas will be fresh about what went well and what you would like to improve. An added bonus is that August is much less stressful when your classes are prepped. 

Reflect 

Take advantage of the slower pace of summer to reflect on how your courses are going. Summer is a great time to explore new materials and textbooks or to read up on engaging teaching practices. If you want a more collaborative experience, join a summer ETE Learning Circle. Consider making an appointment for an IDEA consultation with the Office of Analysis, Assessment, and Accreditation (AAA) to review your IDEA evaluations and identify areas for continued improvement.  

Rework 

Use time in the summer to develop supportive materials for units in your course where students tend to struggle. Try creating study guides or tutorial videos on difficult content or skills that have proven challenging in past terms. If students have struggled on an assignment, consider breaking it into parts, and scaffolding the tasks to facilitate student success. 

Read and review your syllabi from the perspective of a first-generation college student. Is there jargon that might be confusing? Is the language welcoming and inclusive, encouraging a sense of belonging and a growth mindset? Even small changes, like renaming “Office Hours” to “Drop-in Hours,” can help create a more welcoming experience for your students. 

Consider setting up a faculty consultation with CIDI to review your Canvas course. They can help you organize content, improve accessibility and usability, and make your Canvas course more engaging. 

With a little planning and some smart use of your summer downtime, you can ensure a smooth and successful fall term for both you and your students. Remember, taking the time to reflect, rework, and refine your courses now will pay dividends later in the year, allowing you to focus on what matters most – fostering a positive learning environment where your students can thrive. Happy summer, and best of luck for a fantastic fall semester!