Sessional teachers at the University of Iceland form a diverse group with varying levels of responsibility. Therefore, not all information will apply to everyone. It is important to maintain clear lines of communication with the course coordinator or the relevant department and to contact the teaching and student services office of the respective school or faculty if needed.
Before Teaching Begins
The University's Teaching Centre, Setberg, organises orientation days for new teachers, where key aspects of teaching and the support services available to instructors are introduced. New sessional teachers are encouraged to attend. The Teaching Centre also offers professional guidance and courses in pedagogy.
All University of Iceland staff must have a username and password to access internal university systems. Department offices provide new employees with these credentials before teaching begins. The main systems are:
- Ugla - The University's Intraweb
- Canvas - The University's Learning Management System
-
Inspera - A software for digital examinations
- Exams can be held in either an open or a closed system.
- Further information about Inspera can be found in Ugla.
The username and password also provide access to various other UI systems.
Organisation and Scheduling
Sessional teachers are expected to be familiar with the University's academic calendar, which outlines key dates in the academic year, including the start and end of teaching and examination periods, make-up and resit exam periods, and more.
Note that the duration of teaching semesters may differ between schools, so it is necessary to consult the relevant department or faculty office.
Preparation for teaching
If you are a sessional teacher, you may be able to purchase teaching books from the Student Bookstore the first time you teach a course, or if the course material changes. Applications should be made through your faculty.