TA Development Requirements
Requirements
All TAs are required to be trained in the following topics during the TA Development program:
- Diversity in the Classroom
- Communication and Management Practices for TAs
- Effective Grading Practices
- Enhancing your Teaching Skills
- Universal Design for Learning
- Responding to Students in Distress
- University Policies including: FERPA and Academic Integrity, Title IX, & Disability Services
Additional Training Requirements
Microteaching
All new graduate TAs are required to participate in a two-hour microteaching session where they will teach a micro-lesson to a micro-class; afterwards, they will view a videotape of their teaching. These sessions provide an opportunity for small-group discussion about teaching in general and about individual concerns and experiences in particular. Microteaching offers a valuable opportunity to see and reflect on teaching approaches, to get feedback from peers, to learn the teaching styles of others, and to practice teaching in a safe environment.
TA Evaluation Process
The midterm feedback process provides TAs with direct student input regarding teaching skills, methods, and approaches. These results can help TAs identify potential areas to implement changes and improve teaching, and thus lead to a more productive and enjoyable experience for everyone. Engineering Learning Initiatives administers this process each semester, and additional information will be provided to TAs as the mid-semester approaches.