Observation
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Observation of teaching assistants in the classroom is an integral part of the TA training process. Following the CTD and/or departmental training meetings at the beginning of each quarter, CTD contacts each new TA to make arrangements for a classroom visit. These visits are scheduled no earlier than the third week of the quarter so that TAs have an opportunity to acclimate themselves to the class and also to provide an opportunity for the students in the class to get to know their TAs. A TA consultant is assigned to work with each new TA in a mentoring situation. Consultant assignments are based on discipline and experience.
Prior to the observation, the consultant contacts the TA to develop background for the observation. Topics covered are the type of section, format, number of students who generally attend, etc. Additionally, the consultant tries to get an idea of the TA's objectives and plans for the course and the specific section that will be observed. The consultant indicates that the observation is to provide assistance and instruction and is not meant to be evaluative. The consultant and TA then schedule the observation for a mutually convenient time.
The consultant attends the class at the scheduled time and observes the section. At the conclusion of the session, the consultant distributes questionnaires (specifically designed for discussion, problem-solving, laboratory, and studio/performance) to the students and indicates that the questionnaires are anonymous and confidential. The questionnaires utilize a Likert-type scale and provide a space for open-ended comments. The consultant then collects the questionnaires and schedules a feedback consultation conference with the TA. Prior to the conference, the consultant tallies the student responses and analyzes the results.
In addition to providing mandatory observations of new TAs, the Center provides, upon request, observation/consultation services to experienced TAs leading their own sections or lecturing in their professor's section to complete a departmental teaching requirement; associates who are teaching a class for the first time as instructors of record; participants in the Preparing Professional Faculty Program completing a teaching competency requirement; and faculty who are interested in having a professional consultant observe their classes.
Following each observation, an individual feedback consultation is scheduled.
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Center for Teaching Development
9500 Gilman Drive
La Jolla, CA 92093-0030
Phone: (858) 534-6767
Fax: (858) 822-0318
