Convening a unit? Set the stage for success

The lead-up to a new session can be hectic and stressful for unit convenors. Our collection of links to tips and strategies aims to help you cover all bases and set the stage for a successful session for both you and your students.

Follow these 9 steps to success!

1. Prepare like an award-winning MQ Educator with this essential Unit Convenor checklist

2. Know the key teaching dates for Session 2

• S2 classes commence: Monday 22 July.
• Mid-session break: 16-29 September.
• Last day of S2 classes: 3 November.
• S2 Exam period: 4-22 November.
• Refer to the MQ Academic Calendar for other dates.

3. Get your iLearn unit ready

Make sure your iLearn site is well organised and engaging.

• Navigate iLearn like a pro with these workshops, modules and quick guides. If you run into a problem with setting up iLearn, reach out to your Faculty Learning Design Team for support. 
• Follow these 5 steps to ensure your iLearn unit is laid out according to the MQ Online Learning Standards. Use this checklist report to see if your unit meets template requirements.
• Create your reading list in Leganto (and don’t forget to hit ‘Send’) .
• Incorporate an inclusive approach in the design of your iLearn site.  
• Consider chunking your content using iLearn workbooks.

4. Manage your teaching team

5. Ease student concerns with clear and supportive communication

Early and clear communication eases students’ fears and humanises you as a teacher. 

• A welcome video helps establish a personal connection with students before the course begins. 
• Show your commitment by clearly stating that everyone in your classroom will feel valued and respected. Do you have a ‘go-to statement’? If not, see this example.  
• Provide a written overview and infographic (graphic syllabus) with milestones to clarify the unit structure and key dates. This approach reduces confusion and anxiety, making students feel informed and supported. 

6. Design interactive and engaging learning content and activities

7. Include student support resources and information

Ensure you have this information to hand for your students at the start of session:

• Make it clear how students can get in contact with you directly (through the contact block in iLearn) and where they can find out about class changes and other important information, i.e. using iLearn announcements.
• Let students know what they need to do about sickness, absences, or anything else that might impact their studies (i.e. applying for special consideration).
• Provide students with this Support link to access the full network of academic, wellbeing and IT services and support available to ensure student success. 

8. Prepare for when, where and how you will be teaching

• Find out when and where you will be teaching (class days/times and room location) and what facilities are available in the space by accessing the Timetable ‘Publish’ System. 
• If you are scheduled to teach in 1CC (Central Courtyard), this information will help you get set up to teach in 1CC.
• Get some ideas for making your lectures more dynamic to help students absorb and apply knowledge. 
• If you are teaching a blended synchronous class (on-campus and online students at the same time) these technology tips and these practical tips for managing a blended class will help everything go smoothly.
• Make your online classes more engaging with this Zoom for Teaching self-paced module. 

9. Get off to a strong start in week 1 of classes

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Make teaching development part of your game plan this session

Questions? Contact professional.learning@mq.edu.au

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