The first workload strategy is DESIGN. Instructors use the following design strategies to manage workload:
- pre-planning to make sure that everything is ready prior to the beginning of the course for their learners
- anticipating all course responsibilities and plotting them on a grid or timeline to see the "big picture"
- prioritizing course activities to easily see which ones need more time and which less
- anticipating learners’ needs so that needs are met before they become concerns
- reflecting on and revising courses already taught so that the courses are up-to-date and relevant.
The more instructors can pre-plan and visualize the "big picture" the less they will have to be concerned with time-consuming issues during the actual course delivery.
Next week, we'll look at: 2. SUPPORT STRATEGIES.
References
Conceição, S. C., & Lehman, R. M. (2011). Managing Online Instructor Workload: Strategies for Finding Balance and Success. Jossey-Bass.
