Back to School Prep for STEM & Math Instructors 

The start of a new academic term is a critical time for instructors—especially those teaching post-secondary STEM and mathematics. Whether you’re managing large lecture classes, building complex assessments, or supporting students with varied skill levels, good semester prep is essential.

In this post, we’ll walk through 5 key areas to focus on as you get ready for the new term. PLUS we’ve also created this Ultimate Back-to-School Check Sheet for STEM and Math Instructors—a free, actionable guide that goes even deeper to help you streamline your course setup, support foundational learning, and kick off the term on the right foot.

5 Steps to Start Your Semester Strong

1. Upgrade Your Course Materials—Not Just the Dates

Course planning involves more than uploading a new syllabus or tweaking due dates. Start by reviewing your materials through a student-focused lens:

• Are your learning outcomes clear and skills-based?
• Does your syllabus reflect inclusive and flexible policies that support diverse learners?
• Have you updated examples, readings, or lab activities to reflect current, real-world relevance?

2. Optimize Your LMS for Math and STEM Courses

Most traditional learning management systems (LMSs) were not built to handle complex, math-rich environments. If your course includes symbolic notation, dynamic visuals, or hands-on problem-solving, you’ll want an ecosystem that supports those needs.

Ask yourself:

• Does your LMS support free-response math questions with automated grading?
• Can students interact with graphs, plots, simulations, or visual proofs?
• Are you using tools like Möbius, which is built for STEM teaching and assessment?

3. Prioritize Math Readiness & Foundational Skills

Math readiness is an often overlooked, but important, component of student success in higher ed. Many students enter introductory math and science courses with gaps in algebra, functions, or problem-solving that can derail their confidence early.

To support incoming students:

• Offer a diagnostic or placement test during the first week or just before school starts.
• Use solutions like Möbius Math Readiness, which provide curated placement tests AND unlimited, low-pressure practice on essential concepts.
• Normalize the idea of skill-building as part of the learning process, not a weakness.

4. Build an Engaging and Supportive Learning Environment

STEM subjects are often perceived as intimidating, especially by students who don’t identify as “math people.” Early engagement makes a huge difference.

Ways to create connection:

• Start with interactive icebreakers, even in large lectures (think polls, group tasks, or quick intro surveys)
• Set clear expectations for technology, collaboration, and academic integrity
• Highlight support resources like tutoring centers, advising, and readiness tools in your LMS

5.  Don’t Forget About You: Instructor Wellness & Goal Setting

Teaching can be deeply rewarding but also demanding. Between the endless grading of technical assignments and supporting struggling students, it’s easy to lose track of your own well being and professional growth.

This semester, take the time to:

• Set email and grading boundaries from the outset
• Reflect on past course feedback and make 1–2 key improvements
• Choose one professional development goal (try a new tool, attend a teaching workshop, or test out a new assessment strategy)