Contents

Preface

Section I: Introduction to the Teaching Assistant Role

Focusing of Student Learning

Introduction

Effective Instructional Approaches

Active Learning Strategies

Being a Reflective Teacher

Delivery Considerations

Discipline Considerations

References

Interacting with Students

Introduction

Classroom and Office Hours Etiquette and Effectiveness

Office Hours and Scheduled Tutoring Sessions

Electronic Interactions

Documentation

Building Supportive Culture

Establishing Expectations

Fostering a Supportive Learning Environment

Students' Needs and Diversity

Self-Reflection

Groups and Mentoring

Facilitating Group Work

Mentoring/Advising

Conclusion

Overcoming Resistance: Trust-Building for Content Delivery

Introduction

What Is ‘Trust?’ Why Does It Matter in the College Classroom?

Classroom Strategies for Trust Building

Strategy One: Asking about Their Expectations of Faculty

Strategy Two: The Mid-Semester Evaluation

Strategy Three: The Separate End of Semester Evaluation

References

Section II: Designing and Delivering Instruction

Curriculum Development

Introduction

Curriculum Design

Learning Outcomes

Instructional Activities and Assessments of Student Learning

The Syllabus

Legal Issues

Conclusion

References

Instructional Strategies for Active Learning

The Importance of Active Learning

Theoretical Basis

Evidence of Its Effectiveness

Active Learning Techniques

To Supplement Lecture

Activities to Replace Some Lecture

Problem-, Project-, and Cased-Based Learning

Using Technology to Engage Students

Incorporating Student Input and Feedback

Gamification

Video Capture

Collaboration

Simulations

References

Multicultural Metacognition: ‘Thinking About Your Thinking’ as a Facilitator for Diverse Student Populations

Introduction

Why Metacognition is Important

How to Incorporate Metacognitive Activities

Active Learning and Metacognition - How to Incorporate Learner-Centered Metacognitive

Delivery Considerations

Disciplinary Considerations

Conclusion

References

Wild Problems, Messy Learning: Leveraging the Strengths of Project- and Problem-Based Learning

Introduction

The Educational Science that Underpins PBL

The Rise and Evolution of Problem-Based Learning, and Advice for Beginning Teachers

Setting the Stage

Establishing Roles

Assessing the Work

References

Serving as a Teaching Assistant in Large Class Sections

Introduction

Disciplinary Considerations

Before the Semester Starts

Establishing Ground Rules with the Professor

Resources

Persuading the Students

Make Yourself Available

Online Courses and Hybridized Courses

Self-Reflection

Conclusion

References

Teaching Labs and Recitations

Introduction

Understanding the Course Syllabus

The Instructional Team

Laboratory Sections

Recitations

References

Contemplative Practices in the Classroom

Introduction

Practices

Meditation Exercises

Journaling Exercises

Delivery Considerations (Face to Face vs. Online)

Conclusion

References

Using Technology and Apps

Introduction

Technological, Pedagogical, and Content Knowledge

Technology as a Tool

Parsimony and Potential

Technological Resources

Finding Programs

Technology Uses in the Classroom

References

Assessing and Evaluating Student Learning and Achievement

Introduction

Developing an Assessment Plan for Your Course

Learning Outcomes and Cognitive Levels

Selecting an Appropriate Assessment Method

Standards of Achievement

Designing Quality Measures

Communicating Results

Weighting Assessments

Final Thoughts on Grading and Student Motivation

References

Section III: Professionalism

Self-Care and the Teaching Assistant: Strategies to Ensure Academic and Career Success

Introduction

Time Management and Balancing Priorities

Self-Care

Interactions with Students

Interactions with Faculty and Advocating for Needs

Conclusion

References

Teaching as a Profession

Introduction

Creating Your Professional Identity

Developing an Online Teaching Identity

The Teaching Portfolio

Curriculum Vita

Your Professional Identity in an Interview

Closing Thoughts

References

Index