A smooth start to the school year sets the tone for everything that follows, especially in the online classroom . Whether you're new to virtual teaching or a seasoned pro, building trust , clarity , and connection early on pays off all year long. Here are three essential steps to help you start strong: ✉️ 1. Send a Welcome Letter That Connects Before students ever click into your LMS, send a warm, clear, and visually friendly welcome letter. Include: đź‘‹ A brief personal introduction (with a photo, if you're comfortable) 📚 A simple overview of what to expect in your class 📬 Preferred communication channels & your response times 🔑 Login instructions and how to get started 🎥 Bonus: Add a short video greeting to help students feel connected, especially in asynchronous or self-paced programs. 📊 Fun fact: A 2014 study found that instructor-generated video content boosted student engagement and satisfaction in online higher ed courses. 🔥 Pro Tip: Use a m...
If you’re a teacher with or without ADHD, you know the importance of finding tasks that not only help you stay productive but also give your brain that rewarding dopamine hit. đź§ ✨ The key is to match those tasks with how you naturally feel motivated and appreciated . Hack your brain by applying a framework to your tasks for maximum dopamine hits: đź’– The 5 Love Languages : Describe how people experience and give appreciation. đź’ˇ Clifton Strengths : Focus on individual talents and motivators. ⚠️ Decision fatigue and analysis paralysis are real! Here are some ideas to get you started: 🔋 Dopamine-Boosting Tasks by the 5 Love Languages đź’¬ Love Language đź”§ Examples of Dopamine-Boosting Tasks Words of Affirmation đź’¬ Make positive calls or emails home; write thank-you notes; keep a wins journal; post encouraging sticky notes. Quality Time ⏳ Schedule focused 1:1 check-ins; collaborate with colleagues...