Well-being at the University of Iowa is a process focused on life-long learning that promotes and sustains optimal health, personal connectedness, meaningful experiences, and a purposeful life. Health and well-being are essential elements for effective learning and are connected to a student’s ability to learn (Eisenberg, et al., 2013).

As a graduate student instructor, you play a key role in creating and fostering a positive learning environment that supports student learning. You are in a unique position to provide support, as you fulfill many roles simultaneously – as junior colleagues, teachers, and students yourselves. You can nurture your students’ success by creating an environment that is welcoming, supportive, and encourages healthy behaviors.

This guide provides strategies and ideas to promote student well-being in your classroom, lab, or digital learning environment. Small steps can have a big impact. Even if you adopt one new strategy, it can greatly impact your students.