By Zoe Ragouzeos, Vice President of Student Mental Health and Wellbeing, and Jayson Valcik, Assistant Director of Student Wellbeing Initiatives
Research consistently shows that supporting student wellbeing leads to improved learning outcomes, as a positive mental and emotional state allows students to engage more effectively with their studies, focus better, and demonstrate higher academic achievement. When students feel well-supported and cared for they are better equipped to learn and succeed in the classroom.
Midsemester check-ins have been recommended by NYU’s Undergraduate Academic Affairs Committee as an important way to gauge how well students are understanding the course material and responding to the pedagogical approach of a course. We strongly encourage using these check-ins to also support student wellbeing and enhance engagement, which in turn supports student learning.
Students who understand that their academic progress and wellbeing matter to their faculty and that their instructors are invested in their holistic success feel greater motivation and engagement in the classroom – even in large cohorts.
A midsemester check-in should be short, nonintrusive, and centered on how students understand the course material and their overall experience in the class. Midsemester check-ins typically occur at the midpoint of the semester or earlier, so that the instructor can implement changes to the course as necessary in response. For check-ins that address wellbeing, you might also consider times of increased stress, such as before a major exam or project.
An online survey (using Google Forms, Qualtrics, and Brightspace) is the easiest way to collect responses anonymously, ensuring students feel comfortable being open.
Survey Questions
You can ask some quick questions about students’ wellbeing as part of NYU’s recommended midsemester feedback protocol. Along with questions about the course material, consider any of the following Likert-scale questions which aim to help students reflect on their wellbeing and identify areas where they might need support:
- “I feel comfortable managing my workload in this course.”
- “I am aware of the mental health and wellbeing resources available on campus.”
- “I feel a sense of connection with my classmates and instructor.”
- “I feel comfortable reaching out for help if I’m struggling, either academically or personally.”
Open-ended questions could include:
- “Are there any wellbeing resources (e.g., counseling, stress management workshops) that you think would be helpful to share with the class?”
- “What’s one thing that could make you feel more supported in this class?”
How Faculty Can Use the Feedback
The key to midsemester check-ins is the instructor’s response to the feedback. Faculty should not be expected to overhaul their course, but acknowledging feedback and making small changes where possible can send students a powerful message. Here are a few simple ways faculty can respond:
- Acknowledgement: Let the students know that you received their feedback and that you’re here to support them. Even if no changes are made, acknowledging their experience can make them feel heard.
- Highlight Resources: Use the check-in to remind students about the wellbeing resources available to them, such as mental health services, tutoring centers, or campus wellbeing events.
- Simple Adjustments: If students are reporting significant stress or overwhelm, consider minor changes, such as allowing more time for an assignment or resetting the course pacing.
- In-Class Conversations: Mention the check-in results in class, reinforcing that their wellbeing is important and that reaching out for help is encouraged.
If you have any questions or feedback about the midsemester check-in strategy, please email wellbeing@nyu.edu.
Sample Slides to Introduce the Midsemester Check-In
Slide 1: Check-In: How Are You Doing?
We’re halfway through the semester! This is a great time to reflect on how you’re managing both this course and your wellbeing.
Slide 2: I am Listening
Your learning and wellbeing matters!
Please complete the check-in. Your responses will help me ensure you feel supported as we move forward. Remember, I’m here to help, as are campus resources!
Slide 3: Quick Tips for Managing Time and Stress and Staying Balanced
- Take regular breaks: Step away from the screen or books for a short walk or breathing exercises.
- Connect with classmates: Join a study group or find someone to discuss the course with—it helps both academically and socially.
- Use campus resources: Don’t hesitate to explore mental health services (nyu.edu/counseling), the health center (nyu.edu/health), or academic support (nyu.edu/student-success) available to you.
- Time Management Video (timemanagement.nyuwell.com)
- Stress Management Video (stressmanagement.nyuwell.com)
Slide 4: Campus Resources
Wellness Exchange | nyu.edu/9999
Moses Center | nyu.edu/csa
Spiritual Life | nyu.edu/spiritual-life
Athletics | nyu.edu/athletics
Campus Life | nyu.edu/life
Writing Center | https://www.nyu.edu/students/academic-services/writing-center.html