Continuing Throughout the Semester

It is often a good idea to continue the same practices you used for the first day, first week, and first test. These include the following: „ Checking in to make sure TAs know what to do. „ Holding regular meetings. „ Repeating what the TAs’ duties are and developing the TAs’ skills as necessary. „ Providing ongoing feedback. „ Reminding TAs of resources available to them. „ Apprising TAs of professional development opportunities.

If your TAs have instructional responsibilities such as leading a lab, recitation section, or a particular unit in your course, this can be a good time to contribute to their professional development by observing their teaching and then providing constructive feedback.

In addition, consider your TAs as a valuable source of feedback. Ask for information about how well the students are learning the material and areas where students seem to do well or where they are struggling. Such discussions will help you make the most of your TAs as well as provide them with a chance to support student learning and develop professional skills. Consider keeping a running archive of all the things you do to develop your TAs throughout the semester. You can then use this list in the future to make TA development more efficient and effective.

Keeping TAs on Track

“I make sure that the students in the class are aware of the TAs’ efforts and show appreciation when they go the extra mile — for example, when TAs provide very quick grading close to exams."

— Victor Breedveld, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering

“Each TA is observed a minimum of twice per semester. If either observation is deemed less than satisfactory, then we meet with the TA immediately to offer support, advice, and assistance."

— Carrie Shepler, Chemistry and Biochemistry

“I hold a weekly meeting where I encourage TAs to take notes and ask questions. I check in about grading deadlines and ask how interactions in class are going. We look ahead to see what’s coming up and how they can prep ahead." — Chrissy Spencer, Biological Sciences

“I set deadlines for returning student work to help my TAs stay on task."

— Jennifer Leavey, Biological Sciences