A recent faculty Focus article defined a phenomenon that many college educators currently experience: Grumpy time. The grumpy time begins when we feel like the semester never ends, usually about two-thirds to three-quarters of the way through, when everyone (instructors and students) start to feel a little grumpier about school, and compassion levels are depleting. The authors share five action steps that can reduce grumpiness during this time to keep teaching engaging and fulfilling:
- Recommit to infusing empathy in our classes
- Teach some amazing content
- Use engaging and efficient activities and assignments
- Provide catch-up days and mental health days
- Invest in self-care