Some people may argue that teachers' occupation is not a big deal when it comes to dealing with schedules; however, whoever says that has not worked as one. As a teacher who has been teaching for 2 years, I will tell you my experience.
Designing time!
Teachers not only spend time within classrooms but also making activities. We must begin by scheduling one day to plan what we are going to make throughout the whole week, since doing so on weekdays would mean either rushing or taking a chunk of the whole day.
Once we have a day just for designing, let's start with what and how to design.
As you probably know, everything depends. When designing, first, you should keep in mind what the activity is for, the public, and the time you want it to last. As long as you have those three "tenets" in mind, you can start crafting!
What tool do you normally use to create material for your classroom? I'll tell you what I normally use. My main tool is always an AI (Artificial Intelligence), I generally use Copilot because I know it fits my standards, but you can use the ones you like better; I ask Copilot to make sentences, text, questions, or even a complete set of workshops. Once Copilot provides all I asked for, I start editing and framing all I need to fit my class standard.
As a matter of fact, Copilot is not the only tool I use. I also work with Canva, Gamma, Loveable, Miro, and ISLCollective.
Correction time!
Congratulations! Now everything is designed and you have to worry no more... That's what I would say at the end of this entry, but not now. You cannot forget that there's a pile of tests and workbooks to correct. When will you do it?
I can't tell when is a good time to correct your students' work, but I can tell you how I deal with that. First, I try to assign a specific day for that if I don't have the time to do it in class. Once that day comes, I just try to start by grading tests. If all tests are the same, then you can correct one thoroughly, and the rest will be just a matter of how fast you move your hand, Besides, you can try and use a pen that can erase itself so you don't worry about committing any mistake.
I would gather the correction like this:
- Tests or evaluations with answers that don't vary
- Evaluations that are some answers slightly different
- Evaluations in which the answers depend on the student
Resting time!
Designing and correcting are paramount things, but also resting. Sometimes we might think that every mishandled minute might be overcome, but it may lead to mental and physical burnout.
Once the week is over, teachers must find the time to rest; indeed, it will improve their performance. And I'm not talking just about the weekend but having time for breakfast, lunch, and dinner; breathing after a long session, and stopping working after a certain time. We are humans, and if you don't treat yourself like one, then you cannot pretend that others will do it!
Key points
1. Teaching is more than classroom hours
- People often underestimate the workload.
- Behind-the-scenes tasks—like planning and correcting—are time-consuming and crucial.
2. Plan smart with “Designing Day”
- Dedicate one day a week to prepare all activities.
- Avoids last-minute stress during busy weekdays.
3. Design with purpose
- Always consider:
- What the activity is for
- Who it’s for
- How long it should last
4. Use the right tools
- AI tools (like Copilot) help generate materials quickly.
- Other helpful platforms: Canva, Gamma, Loveable, Miro, ISLCollective.
5. Grade with a system
- Choose a specific day for corrections.
- Start with uniform tests, then move to more open-ended tasks.
- Consider tools (like erasable pens) to speed up the process.
6. Don’t skip rest
- Overworking leads to burnout.
- Carve out time to eat, breathe, and fully disconnect—every day, not just on weekends.
It was a pleasure to share my experience with you, I truly hope you find it useful; moreover, I'd like you to put it into practice.
See you later!
