In August, faculty and staff from across the University came together for the Teaching Effectiveness Institute (TEI) to consider how to support the learning experiences of students struggling with their mental health. Rob Eaton, a Professor at Bringham Young University and co-author of Improving Learning and Mental Health in the College Classroom, facilitated discussions on mental health in higher education.

Through activities and discussion, participants considered the impact of mental health challenges on learning. They also explore how to design courses with students who are struggling with mental health in mind through policies, assignments, mentorship, wellness practices, and community building. 

Participants of the Institute were encouraged to consider their ability to help students with mental health challenges and improve learning for all students by adjusting approaches to course design and interacting with students. While there are designated mental health support services for students at NIU, faculty can play a large role in creating an environment that helps students. Courses can be designed in a way that students can be successful and aren’t punished for struggling in their personal lives.

Takeaways from the Institute: 

• Everyone benefits from support. Adopting any learning methods or policies that are geared toward assisting students facing mental health challenges will benefit all students 
• Focus on humanity. Creating policies and communicating with students in a way that focuses on humanity and understanding will help build trust and better relationships. 
• Set realistic expectations for grades. Focus on students learning content and practicing skills from the learning objectives for the course. 
• Encourage wellness. Consider incorporating activities and discussing behaviors during class that motivate students to take time away from academic texts and buildings to spend time outdoors, meditate, journal, or connect with art. 

For more on this topic, read the eBook of Improving Learning and Mental Health in the College Classroom by Robert Eaton, Steven V. Hunsaker, and Bonnie Moon, available through the NIU library.  

The Spring 2024 Teaching Effectiveness Institute will be held in January 2024. Details will be shared in the coming weeks.