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Best Practices

The Gift of Time

Fida A. Elhafiz
Instructor of Architecture
As an Architecture and Design instructor guiding freshmen through technical
drawing, I’ve realized that our lessons extend beyond the drafting table;
they are lessons for life. In architecture and design, where precision meets
creativity, time management is essential for success.

Managing time is crucial as it affects academic performance, productivity, and
psychological well-being. Freshmen face a steep learning curve transitioning
from high school to university. In architecture, mastering time management
is vital for navigating complex projects with overlapping stages, from
conceptualization to final rendering. Efficient time management helps them
adapt to university workloads and create under pressure.

A few semesters ago, a talented student struggled with time management, leaving projects until the last
minute, leading to stress and compromised quality. Recognizing her potential, I offered strategies: breaking
down projects into manageable tasks, setting realistic deadlines, and prioritizing work. Her transformation
was remarkable; her grades and overall well-being improved significantly. This experience highlighted the
profound impact of effective time management on a student’s life.

Good time management directly impacts performance and productivity. By prioritizing tasks and setting
deadlines, students navigate their coursework more effectively, leading to better outcomes. Good time
management also reduces stress and anxiety, contributing to a healthier psychological state. Students who
feel in control of their schedules report higher levels of satisfaction and well-being.

Time management extends beyond academic achievements. It’s about balancing coursework, everyday
tasks, social engagements, and personal downtime. It’s about assigning tasks reasonably, rewarding
accomplishments, and recognizing the need for penalties when goals are not met. Most importantly, it’s
about carving out time for oneself, recognizing that personal well-being is as crucial as academic success.

To help students manage their time effectively, instructors can recommend strategies like using digital
tools such as Google Calendar or Teams Calendar to organize tasks and deadlines. These tools help break
down big projects into smaller steps. Teaching students how to prioritize tasks is also helpful. Methods like
listing tasks by importance and urgency, such as using the Eisenhower Box, are beneficial. Regular check-ins
can help students stay on track and adjust their plans as needed. Implementing these strategies can help
students handle their workload more efficiently, leading to better academic performance and less stress.

Time is the most precious essence of life. How we manage our time defines the quality of our work and life.
I emphasize to my students that time is not just a resource to be managed but a gift to be cherished.

As we sketch our futures, the importance of managing our time with care and precision cannot be overstated.
Mastering time management is not just about enhancing academic performance or productivity; it’s about
enriching our lives in every dimension. Let’s take this challenge with enthusiasm, for in mastering time, we
unlock the door to a future where our potential knows no bounds

Abu Dhabi University | ADU Campus Chronicles Issue 1