Time Management in the Classroom: Digital Strategies

No matter what the age of your students, time management skills are key elements to success. Educators can use web-tools to assist in their journeys of turning in work on time, achieving goals, and arriving at milestones.
Kristin Harrington, in her book, Adventures in Authentic Learning, suggests,

When we rush through a project to "get it finished," we teach students that this is an acceptable way to work. Rather, let’s teach them about the importance of practice and iteration, as well as the value of reflection. (190)

 But where to start? Luckily, Harrington gives us some apt recommendations. 

Project To-Do Lists

A to-do list is a great way to visualize upcoming assignments so as to block out space for them mentally. For adults and kids, a to-do list can be a great tool for ensuring greater productivity and peace of mind when accomplishing tasks. 

There are several web tools that integrate to-do lists into their software, like Microsoft OneNote, Google Docs, and Padlet. All of these online tools are accessible to use for all ages and can contain perks that the normal pen-and-paper to-do lists don't have. 

Check-In Journal

A check-in journal is a great alternative if a to-do list seems too daunting. Having the students check in periodically to make sure they are on track is sometimes all a teacher needs. Using an online discussion board, you can ask the students to reflect on their progress so far. This can be a great method for ensuring that work gets done, as Name points out,

I find that students who were off-task typically write what they should have been doing and then get back on track. This eliminates the need to nag or scold students, and instead helps them take steps toward self-regulation. (192)

For check-in journals, most any LMS (Learning Management System) works, like Canvas or Google Classroom. Paper can work just as well too! Students can physically write out their progress and then upload a photo to their teacher. 

Gantt Chart 

A Gantt chart can be helpful for older students working on more complex assignments. When assignments get bigger and more complex, a Gantt chart can keep track of each segment to ensure everything is occurring in a timely fashion. Say you assign a major paper due at the end of the semester or marking period, you might want to incorporate a Gantt chart to include suggestions for due-dates for when the thesis should be completed, the first page, the second, and so on. For a more in-depth overview, look here.

Conclusion

Time management skills are lifelong skills. Every adult needs to manage their time well to perform well at their job, take care of their dependents, and generally keep themselves healthy (and sane!). Incorporating these skills into the classroom can be a great way of preparing students for their futures and ensuring their success as a student. And combining these skills with digital tools makes the venture all the more appropriate.