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Preparing for Section
Faculty:
First impressions count…a lot. Before your first section meeting, make sure you know and understand course requirements and policies so that you can answer your students’ questions with confidence. Also, it is a good idea to have a well-thought out syllabus that provides information that pertains specifically to your section such as contact information, your own policies regarding email, assignments, etc. By showing the students that you are confident and prepared, they will develop confidence in you as a TA.
Student:
When I go to Section for the first time, I want my TA to tell me what to expect from the section and how to get help if I need it. I really appreciate TA’s that have their own syllabus that outlines the section structure for me.
TA:
It is important to realize that your first two meetings with the students determine the way they perceive your teaching style and your quality as a TA. The first day is when you set up the right expectations.
- Make clear your expectations of your students such as:
- Come to section with specific questions in mind.
- No late homework will be accepted.
- Tell them what they can expect from you:
- Post homework solutions.
- Hold a review session before each exam.
- Reply to an e-mail question within 24 hours.
No matter what your policy is, you should communicate it clearly and stick to it.
