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Helping hand for teaching assistants

Orientation to provide networking opportunities and information on resources for TAs.
August 15, 2013
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By Tom Peacock


Art-Education-Studio-Class-149Photo by Concordia University

There are an estimated 1,200 teaching assistant (TA) positions at Concordia.

A challenge that many new TAs face is learning how to communicate effectively with their supervising professor to better understand what their job entails. “It’s important for them to know what’s involved if they’re grading, or if they’re tutoring or leading discussions, or even leading a class,” says Janette Barrington, teaching consultant at the Centre for Teaching and Learning Services (CTLS).

To help address this and other common questions, the CTLS is holding an afternoon orientation session for new, returning and prospective TAs on Thursday, August 22. The event is also an opportunity to spread the word about further resources like Epigeum, a series of new online TA-specific learning modules, and the Graduate and Professional Skills (GradProSkills) program.

It’s also a chance for everyone to get to know each other. “Networking is one the main goals of the event,” says Barrington. “We want TAs to know there are other TAs out there.”

Barrington points out that some teaching assistants receive their contracts before they arrive on campus for the first time. The orientation is a chance for them to learn about the support networks in place.

“Perhaps they need to point in the right direction students who need help with their writing skills, or with their math skills. It’s important for them to know that we’ve got great services for students,” she says.

The August 22 orientation session will include a presentation of the available resources, a panel discussion with experienced TAs and a round-table discussion.

It’s a free event and refreshments will be served. Space is limited; TAs interested in attending must register through GradProSkills.

When: Thursday, August 22, 2013, from 1:30 to 5 p.m.

Where: Room H-767, Henry F. Hall Building, 1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W., Sir George Williams Campus

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