Tips for new Teaching Assistants

Kate Farrell

Who am I?

• Grad student – theoretical ecology

• 3 Years teaching at UVM (biology)

• 2 years teaching at a high school (physics)

Before you start: What is your job?

• Teacher

• Mentor

• Role model

• Grader

• Part of a team

Before you start: Who are your students?

• Where are they coming from?

• What are their expectations and goals?

• What is their background?

Before you start:Logistics

• Read all the labs for the course

• Understand the expectations of the professor and lab coordinator

Getting off to a good start

• Clear expectations: First day handout– Schedule– Grading– Policy for late work

• Start on time

• Start off strict, you can ease up later

What students need to know

• How does this relate to the big picture?

• How will I be graded?

• What are the important concepts?

• What are the important skills?

• How do I get help?

Things you do not need to do

• Hide the fact that you do not know everything

• Lecture for an hour without a break

• Plan every word you will say before you get there

Things you do need to do

• Know the essential ideas and concepts

• Plan to address these ideas and concepts

• Point out good questions and suggest ways to find the answer

Things you do need to do

• Clearly explain your expectations– Students can’t read your mind

• Treat students with respect– Your students are rookies, not stupid people