Why use checklists and templates in education?

Everyday teaching life is often very stressful, so working aids to ease the burden are all the more welcome. In particular, administrative tasks offer opportunities for relief, which educators should make use in any case. Checklists and form templates are one way of doing everyday work in kindergarten, school or university easier.

The use of templates makes sense if tasks and projects consist of several parts, have complex content or are particularly important. They are just as suitable for the diagnostic form as for the address list. Such work aids support teachers in carrying out their tasks in a structured, efficient and reliable manner.

The constant repetition in a form or checklist promotes routine work without allowing for negligence. Everything is set out in writing and is worked through point by point. This means that templates provide security for the task at hand. On the other hand, they serve as a reminder for tasks that rarely occur.

What are the advantages of template creation facilities?

Templates are used differently in the educational sector. A template is used for kindergarten, school or university registration, and the evaluation of students or teachers. Although their content and purpose is different, all templates have the same advantages:

1. It is easier to familiarize yourself with new tasks.
2. Different tasks are easier to delegate.
3. The error rate when filling out the form is reduced.
4. Nothing important is forgotten.
5. The workflow is predefined, leaving the mind free for other tasks.
6. The overview does not get lost, so the stress level decreases.
7. Work processes are easy to document.
8. Useful work aid for substitution in case of illness or vacation.
9. Time is saved at work.

For job starters, templates in the educational sector are valuable work aid. With their help, they can open up new work areas more easily. Also, experienced teachers benefit from simplified processes and procedures in their work — a benefit for everyone in education.

How do I create a template in education?

The design and content of a template always depend on the field of application and the task(s) to be performed. Suppose the educational institution does not have a template that fits the task at hand. In that case, there are often numerous templates for education on the World Wide Web, such as the Lumiform template library.

Such templates may not always fit the task completely, but they can serve as a basis for a new one. Unfortunately, there are hardly any concrete guidelines for educators to follow when creating a template. This can make the creation of a template quite laborious. The following tips will enable you to create checklists or templates efficiently, flawlessly, and in a time-saving manner:

1. Narrow down the topic
A template should be used over a long period. Therefore it is essential to make notes on the subject to have all the necessary information for the template together. It is best to discuss the content with colleagues and superiors.

2. Keep it simple
Although several data are queried in a template, it should nevertheless be formulated and structured simply as far as possible. This ensures that the content of the template is easy to absorb and understand. Therefore a template should be limited to important data.

3. Work without errors
A clear structure is as essential as error-free sentences and structure. This not only makes it easier for the reader to understand but also leaves a better impression. A further person should check each new template.

4. Create order
It is useful in every template to build the tasks or questions chronologically. Sections additionally categorize related questions and information.

5. Select suitable questions and answers
In addition to error-free sentences and well-thought-out content, the selection of question and answer types is a decisive factor in creating a perfect template. For example, most people find it easier to answer the given answers. Therefore, multiple-choice answers in a template are better than empty answer fields.

6. Complete a test run
A new template will best prove its effectiveness in practice. Some errors will probably be found during the first run — an excellent chance to rework the template again.

FAQ: 3 common questions about templates in education

What advantages do digital templates offer in education?

The use of digital templates offers numerous advantages in education. Not only do they make everyday work more comfortable, but they also ensure an efficient workflow. Colleagues have easier access to the information they need. There is no paper chaos; the information does not get lost and is always available in digital form. Those who use desktop software and apps for their checklists can save time by completing assessments, reports and analyses digitally.

Can digital templates cover the documentation requirements in the education sector?

Various areas in the education sector need to be documented. These include students' performance, the evaluation of the pedagogical work of teachers, or the attendance at school and extracurricular events. Digital templates have the advantage that once they are filled out and saved, everything is immediately stored in the cloud. Regardless of location, the desired information can be accessed at any time, and any information that is no longer needed can be deleted if necessary.

How do templates support the improvement of the educational system?

Templates in various areas create space for other tasks that benefit the educational operation and the further development of new concepts. The improved processes for administrative tasks save time that can be used elsewhere.