Using This Guidebook

As part of UPEI’s commitment to promoting student well-being, the Teaching and Learning Centre and Student Affairs have developed this guidebook for instructors. Think of this guidebook as you would a menu. It provides a variety of evidence-based strategies and resources to choose from depending on the needs of your course, online environment, lab, community placement, or clinical rotation. The strategies apply to diverse teaching contexts including undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs and include ideas for both small-scale and large-scale changes. We provide ideas you can use in course design, in developing your syllabus, in the first days and weeks of your class, lab or rotation, and throughout the semester. As you review the guidebook, remember that it is okay (and encouraged!) to start small — choose one or a few new strategies to try.

Supporting Students in Distress

In addition to providing strategies for supporting student well-being in your classes, this guidebook also offers suggestions for handling situations where you think a student may be experiencing psychological distress. As instructors, we can fulfill our role in the University’s network of support by recognizing warning signs, listening to students, and making referrals to mental health services when needed.

Note: You may recognize some of the strategies in this guidebook as inclusive, culturally- responsive teaching strategies, which include strategies meant to actively engage and serve the needs of all students. For more ideas specifically about inclusive course design and teaching, visit the inclusive teaching resources available through the Academic Instructional Skills Program.