Posted by Carly Byer on Wednesday, August 5, 2020 in Events, Resource, TAO, Teaching Assistants.

Many graduate students are awarded teaching assistantships, and while teaching assistant (TA) duties vary across departments, they all demand considerable skill and knowledge. These duties can include grading, consulting with students during office hours, leading discussion or problem sessions, teaching labs, or giving lectures.

To assist new TAs as they prepare for their duties, the Vanderbilt University Center for Teaching offers its Teaching Assistant Orientation (TAO) each August. 

• Sessions offer effective strategies for the varied teaching duties assumed by TAs.
• Participants at TAO also receive an opportunity to practice their teaching skills and receive feedback on their teaching.
• Participation can make students’ work as TAs easier and will be a valuable addition to their curriculum vitae.

Due to COVID-19 and the need to practice safe social distancing, this year, TAO will be held remotely and will include a mix of synchronous and asynchronous activities spread across three days. New TAs will work in a small disciplinary cohort led by a Teaching Affiliate to learn about the skills and knowledge needed to be an effective TA in face-to-face and online learning settings. Participants should plan to dedicate approximately 3 hours each day to complete all synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Date: August 17, 18, 19
Time: 9:00-11:00 am via zoom, plus an additional hour to complete asynchronous learning modules

For details and to register, see the orientation page.