Both teaching and TAing are often silent, individual activities that rarely get spoken about. However, it is well-documented that talking and reflecting on teaching are key indicators of success in teaching. The more you open up about your successes and failures in the classroom, the more you will realize that most of your fears and experiences are actually quite normal and prevalent; this realization is empowering and helps us to be resilient TAs who are open to growth and improvement.

The Peer TA Program has two elements: 1) informal group sharing sessions, and 2) reading discussion groups.

Group Sharing Sessions

In these roundtable sessions, an experienced TA will facilitate as all TAs share their successes and (perceived) failures of the month. It is a safe and open environment to share what you tried and why you think it worked or didn’t work. It is also an opportunity to ask your fellow TAs what they would have done differently, or how they are meeting similar learning outcomes by different means and activities.

Group Sharing Session Schedules

Department of Communication, Media and Film
Last Wednesday of the month, from 5:00-6:00 p.m.

Reading Discussion Groups

Every month we will read a different resource, article, or book chapter on pedagogical theory. These will range from Freirean philosophy to active learning strategies. In these book club style discussion groups, we will discuss how the principles of that month’s source could be implemented into our TA practice within the context of our discipline. This is a great opportunity to foster a deeper understanding of how pedagogical theory can inform best practices.

Reading Discussion Group Schedules

Department of Communication, Media and Film
Last Wednesday of the month, from 6:00-7:00 p.m.