Remote TEFL Teaching: Balance Strategies

As part of the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic, many teachers are adapting to remote teaching. Coleen Monroe provides her expertise on maintaining work-life balance while teaching online from home in this comprehensive guide she created based on her own experience and strategies, with an emphasis on thoughtful EFL design that supports sustainable teaching practices.

Maintaining Work-Life Balance When Teaching from Home Achieve work-life balance while teaching online from home can be difficult, but with the right strategies it is achievable. Monroe suggests:

Create a Dedicated Workspace: If possible, designate a specific area within your home as your workspace to establish a clear mental divide between work and home life. By delineating an area for working solely, this helps set aside a physical boundary that serves to separate these aspects of your life from each other.

Maintain a Regular Schedule: Adopting the same practices used in traditional classroom environments can provide a sense of normalcy and structure to an online education environment.

Avoid Merging Work and Personal Activities: Adopting the same practices used in traditional classroom environments can provide a sense of normalcy and structure to an online education environment. Integrating elements of EFL design into your daily plan can also help streamline lessons and reduce planning stress.

Learn to Say No: Setting boundaries and managing expectations are vitally important, so if an expectation seems unreasonable don't be afraid to speak up. Don't be intimidated into accepting unreasonable requests by saying nothing at all - say NO instead!

Engage in Non-Work Related Activities: Find activities you enjoy that help relax you - reading a book, going for a walk or practicing yoga could all provide opportunities to do just this!

How Can I Separate Work and Personal Life When My Living Room Is My Classroom?

As soon as your living room becomes your classroom, it can be challenging to delineate between work and personal life. Monroe suggests creating a dedicated workspace - even if just a corner - where work should only occur during working hours. Some have even suggested "commuting" across your apartment or house in order to physically separate work and personal lives from each other; also having rituals at the start and end of each workday can help mentally transition between them both.

How Can I Manage My Time Effectively While Teaching Online from Home?

Effective time management is key to maintaining work-life balance. Monroe recommends creating a set schedule, similar to working at an office or school. Let those living with you know when you will or won't be available, perhaps creating a visual calendar with this information. Planning out your day in advance, setting realistic goals, and taking regular breaks are also proven strategies for managing time effectively.

How Can I Manage Stress and Mental Health Issues That May Occur from Teaching Online from Home?

Working from home can be isolating and stressful, so it is crucial to recognize signs of mental distress and seek assistance when needed. There are various online resources dedicated to mental health support available today, but engaging in non-work related activities that bring joy can also help relieve stress and improve mental wellbeing - regular exercise, adequate restful sleep and maintaining a balanced diet all contribute towards improved psychological well-being.

How Can I Refuse Unreasonable Demands or Expectations Without Compromise My Job?

Learning to say no can be a key life skill. When faced with unreasonable demands or expectations, responding with a polite but definitive 'no' may be your best answer. Make sure you communicate any concerns clearly and professionally to prioritize health and safety concerns, remembering it's okay to seek assistance or delegate tasks when necessary.

Attaining work-life equilibrium during an economic downturn can be daunting. With proper strategies in place, though, it's possible to manage this challenge and stay productive. Prioritize your wellbeing and set clear boundaries between work and personal life - it's about not only surviving in this new reality but thriving within it!