TI 0923 - TA Workshop Series

Classroom Management Strategies for TAs

In this workshop, participants will explore classroom management strategies such as planning effective office hours, asking effective questions and responding to student questions, facilitating engaging student discussions in online and in-person learning environments, etc. We will explore these topics under the lens of inclusive teaching practices and universal instructional design.

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Recognise strategies that create equitable and inclusive classrooms/labs/tutorial sessions
• Use classroom management strategies to promote positive TA-student relationships
• Identify strategies to facilitate effective student discussions in different learning environments

Student Assessment and Feedback Strategies for TAs

In this workshop, participants will explore key pedagogical aspects of assessment and grading in student-centred learning environments. We will discuss the importance of formative feedback and summative assessments along with a brief overview of rubrics and their use in grading. Strategies for providing feedback on students’ assignments will be discussed so that participants can provide meaningful and effective feedback to help their students succeed in the course. 

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Discuss the importance and role of formative feedback and summative assessments,
• Select appropriate assessment methods to evaluate student learning,
• Use an assessment rubric to provide feedback and measure student performance
• Explore methods to provide effective feedback to students.

Enhancing TA-Instructor Partnerships

Teaching Assistants (TAs) are critical members of the teaching team. They bring to their position a wide variety of experience and backgrounds and contribute in meaningful ways. Creating a climate of mutual respect and reciprocity for each other while working as partners with your instructor can have a positive impact on teaching and learning goals.

In this session, we will: 

• Discuss strategies to develop a positive partnership with your professor
• Explore effective ways of enhancing communication with your instructor 
• Create a climate of feedback and reciprocity that supports your mental wellbeing

Professional Development of TAs 

In this workshop, participants will explore topics related to their professional development as a TA. This workshop will provide them with an opportunity to meaningfully reflect on their TA experiences; discuss their emerging teaching practices; identify teaching related goals and explore available campus resources to promote further development.   

By the end of this workshop, participants will have an opportunity to: 

• Recognize strategies to engage in critical reflection  
• Discuss their TA experiences with peers and colleagues 
• Explore their emerging teaching practices 
• Develop awareness of campus resources and available programming offered by TI

Please note: Registration will close 2 business days before each workshop. Participants will receive relevant Zoom information via email at least 1 hour before the designated start time.