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An interesting idea about the flipped classroom model. The professors in the article are not only challenging the idea of class time and homework time, but the idea that the whole class needs to move through the same syllabus at the same pace. From the article: "We would rather our kids actually know 80 percent of the content, instead of being exposed to 100 percent of the content," said Bergmann.

A set of concrete strategies for guiding class discussions on sensitive topics. There are also some themes which develop about the general environment for discussion, and students' understanding of the role of class discussion (as compared to other projects or homework) in the course.

Lynn Gillette uses a definitional grading system to prioritize meaningful preparation for class. His Class Preparation Assignments (don't call them homework!) help students learn to read disciplinary material, serve as a structure for better note taking, and allow for more discussion and active learning in his classes.

"Faced with the question - How much reading should we assign? - I think most instructors would agree that the best answer is: "It depends."" One way to break the tyranny of "coverage" is to deeply consider your goals for how students will make meaning with the reading you assign.

Interesting calculator for estimating the amount of time your assigned work may be taking your students, with a review of the supporting research. How does this match your assumptions and expectations?

Rice University's Center for Teaching Excellence has updated their phenomenal course workload estimator to include time spent writing and studying for exams.

Have you figured out how much work you're asking of yourself and your students this fall? There's still time to.