Partnership: The Recipe for Success for Undergraduate Teacher's Assistants

Abstract

By Emilee Goodman, Communication Sciences and Disorders; Jessica Doran, Communication Sciences and Disorders

Advisor: Sandra Combs

Presentation ID: AM_C21

Abstract: Partnership: The Recipe for Success for Undergraduate Teacher's Assistants In order to be a successful undergraduate teacher's assistant (TA), one must recognize and fully utilize the critical components that play into this role. Some examples of these are communication, diligence, and time management. One further component that has been found to be beneficial is a collaborative partnership between a TA and an instructor. According to Firmin (2008), "making a TA experience a successful one relates to the connections that form between the instructor and the TA" (pg.5). Through consistent, respectful communication, a teacher's assistant can fully understand the professor's expectations and take on the responsibilities associated with the role. According to Buskist & Benassi (2012), TAs must deal with a wide scope of responsibilities; including, but not limited to, keeping track of attendance, the grade book, assignments, and providing feedback to the instructor about how things are going. Through communication regarding expectations and available resources, an individual can excel in such a position. This poster will highlight our experiences as teacher's assistants by focusing on our interactions with our professors and the resources we became comfortable using through their guidance. Resources Buskist, W., & Benassi, V. A. (2012). Preparing for the Future. Effective College and University Teaching: S trategies and Tactics for the New Professoriate (pg. 198-205). Los Angeles, California: SAGE. Firmin, M. W., (2008). Utilizing Undergraduate Assistants in General Education Courses. Contemporary Issues in Education Research, volume 1, (issue 1), pages 1-5. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1056274.pdf