The Must-Know-Monday Method and How it Improves Academic Performance
As a community college professor, I’m always on the lookout for how to better connect with my students. They face a lot of unique challenges. Balancing coursework, jobs, and personal responsibilities can often feel overwhelming because many of them are not prepared for the workload of a college course.
To help my students stay organized, foster connections, and minimize excuses, I introduced a weekly initiative I call "Must-Know Monday." This simple yet effective announcement has really helped!
The Purpose of Must-Know Monday
Every Monday, I post an announcement that highlights key information, upcoming deadlines, and essential resources. This consistent communication serves several vital purposes:
Organization: With numerous assignments, quizzes, and exams on the horizon, it’s easy for students to lose track of what’s due. By summarizing critical dates and tasks, I help them prioritize their responsibilities and manage their time effectively.
Connection: Online learning can often feel isolating. My "Must-Know Monday" announcements include not just academic updates but also community-building elements. I share student success stories, highlight collaborative projects, and invite students to participate in discussions. This keeps the class engaged and fosters a sense of belonging.
Excuse Prevention: One of the most common reasons students fall behind is a lack of awareness about deadlines or requirements. By providing clear, concise information each week, I aim to reduce excuses and encourage accountability. Students are more likely to take ownership of their learning when they have all the necessary information at their fingertips.
The Impact of Must-Know Monday on Academic Performance
Since implementing this initiative, I’ve observed significant improvements in student engagement and performance. Here are a few notable outcomes:
Increased Participation: With weekly check-ins, students feel more connected and are more likely to engage in discussions and group activities.
Improved Time Management: Many students have reported feeling less stressed and more organized, attributing this to the clarity provided by the announcements.
Fostering Accountability: Fewer excuses and missed deadlines indicate that students are taking charge of their learning, leading to better overall outcomes.
What to Expect in Each Announcement
Each "Must-Know Monday" announcement includes several key components:
Upcoming Deadlines: A clear list of assignments and their due dates helps students plan their week.
Resource Highlights: I regularly feature useful tools, study guides, or tutoring services available to students, ensuring they know where to turn for help.
Engagement Opportunities: I encourage students to participate in forums, group projects, or virtual meet-ups, reinforcing the importance of connection in their learning journey.
Motivational Reminders: A positive quote or message to inspire students as they tackle their week. A little motivation can go a long way!
Sample Must-Know Monday Post: Key Components
High Priority:
Your final research essay is due in two weeks.
Get Help:
I love to look at rough drafts! Send me an email with an attachment of your in-progress work by Thursday at noon to get feedback.
Get Ahead:
Begin studying for Test 3 by reviewing chapters 5-7 in your textbook. Pay attention to the guided questions!
Resource:
The tutoring center offers virtual hours from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm. Visit their website to schedule a session.
Due Monday:
Discussion 1
Conclusion
"Must-Know Monday" has become a cornerstone of my teaching approach, bridging the gap between online learning and community building. By providing consistent, clear communication, I empower my students to take control of their educational journey. As we continue to adapt to the evolving landscape of education, initiatives like this remind us of the essential human connection at the heart of teaching and learning.
I encourage fellow educators to consider implementing similar strategies in their classrooms. Together, we can create supportive and engaging environments that help all students thrive.
To see how I can help your school or organization implement simple and actionable strategies to help students get and stay organized, check out my workshops page.
