Student Expectations

Student Expectations

they expect teachers to explain everything to them very fully, particularly the details of what they are expected to do in the course and how grades are assigned;
they value teachers who are friendly and open, communicating something about themselves as people;
they may want teachers to interact with them in class, encouraging student participation and dealing gently with incorrect responses;
they prefer teachers who make their classes interesting by using a lively presentation style, "relevant" and intriguing examples, and humour;
they respect teachers who are knowledgeable, but who are also willing to admit that they do not know something when that is the case.

Sitting in on a class given by another TA may provide helpful insight on how students and TAs act and interact. Discuss your concerns about your teaching with your supervisor, your fellow TAs, or with the Office of Instructional Development and Technology.

Adapted from:

Axelson, Elizabeth & Hofer, Barbara* (1991). "Suggestions for the International Teaching Assistant." In B. Black & L.K. Acitelli (Eds.), A Guidebook for University of Michigan Teaching Assistants (pp.5-9). Ann Arbor, MI: University of Michigan, The Center for Research on Learning & Teaching. *The authors note that a number of their ideas are derived from Gary Althen's Manual for Foreign Teaching Assistants.

Diamond, N., Hahn, L., Helgesen, M., & Visek, P. (1988). Handbook for Teaching Assistants at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Urbana, IL: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Office of Instructional and Management Services.