The Setting Up for Success series from MyEducator provides practical, research-informed strategies to help instructors design and deliver courses of engagement, motivation, and measurable learning outcomes. This series equips instructors with the tools to start strong and then sustain momentum throughout the semester. Check out the links below to learn more about setting up your course for success.

Setting Up for Success: 7 Steps to Design a Grading Plan That Promotes Fairness, Motivation, and Learning

An effective grading plan promotes course clarity, fairness, and motivation. When students understand how their work is evaluated, they are more likely to stay engaged and take ownership of their learning. Learn how to align assessments with course learning objectives, balance formative and summative grading, create transparent rubrics, and structure self-, peer-, and instructor-feedback.

Setting Up for Success: Instructor Materials

High-quality instructor materials can help improve the course experience by simplifying preparation and increasing instructional consistency across sections. Discover how to leverage ready-made syllabi and pacing guides; lecture slides and discussion questions; and case studies and experiential learning activities.

Setting Up for Success: Instructor and Course Evaluations

Course evaluations are more than administrative requirements—they are powerful tools for strengthening instruction. This article explains how to collect actionable student feedback, use mid-course evaluations to adjust in real time, and interpret end-of-course data to set up future semesters for success.

Setting Up for Success by Starting Out Right: The Art of the Pre-Assessment

Instructors can use pre-assessments to guide instruction and get off to the right foot for each course or new module. Undergraduate classrooms often include varied levels of preparation. A structured pre-assessment helps identify knowledge gaps, clarify expectations, and tailor instruction early. This article explains how to measure prior knowledge at the start of the term, align instruction with student readiness, and build confidence through early diagnostic insights.