[PSTUM-list] Support for TAs Currently Teaching

PSTUM List, What kind of support do you offer math TAs during the semesters in which they teach, particularly those who are teaching for the first time? Have you found any of the following methods of support useful and, if so, why? a) Observations of the TA's teaching by faculty members, with feedback to the TA b) Observations of the TA's teaching by other TAs, with feedback to the TA c) Videotaping the TA's teaching and having the TA watch the tape with someone d) Collecting feedback (either via evaluation forms or student interviews) from the TA's students and reviewing it with the TA e) Having the TA give a practice version of an upcoming lecture in front of other TAs, faculty members, or actual students f) Seminars or courses on teaching and pedagogy g) Regular meetings for TAs associated with a particular course to discuss teaching matters h) Other ideas? Derek -- Derek Bruff, Ph.D. Assistant Director, Vanderbilt Center for Teaching 116 Calhoun Hall / Box 351537, Station B Nashville, TN 37235 615-322-7290 / www.vanderbilt.edu/cft/