General Tips

• Prioritize and accept tasks according to your personal philosophy and values. Learn how to say no to requests that don’t fit with your philosophy.
• Make a list. This seems obvious, but a concrete list can help prioritize and organize tasks.
• Compartmentalize – determine how much time to devote each area of your life and allocate only that amount of time.
• Take regular breaks and schedule time for exercise, relaxation, and personal enrichment.
• Include time to think and reflect in your daily schedule.

Teaching

• Don’t over prepare for class – realize that there is only a certain amount that can be accomplished during a class period.
• Vary the class structure so that students contribute more – schedule discussions, debates, or collaborative projects.
• Include guest speakers, information literacy sessions, or films.
• Stagger due dates for your classes so that you’re not faced with grading 120 papers or exams at the same time.
• Take a few minutes after each class to reflect on the session and make notes for the next class session.
• When planning class sessions refer to the course competencies. If a planned activity doesn’t relate, omit it.

Using Technology, or Not

• Use only if adds value. For some, an old-fashioned paper calendar may be easier to use and ultimately more beneficial than a PDA or similar device; for others, features of an online or electronic calendar may be advantageous.
• Recognize that you are not a 24/7 person – turn off the computer/cell phone/pager and be available at designated times only.
• Set aside time each day to answer email.
• Always make backup copies of your work.

Want to learn more?
Contact the Center for personalized assistance or visit these web sites (note: some sites were designed for students, but still contain valuable information) -
Time Management for Faculty
Faculty Time Savers Handout
10 tips for time management in a multitasking world
Time Management
5 Time-Management Tricks