Picture this: A graduate student leading a lively discussion session where undergraduate students debate complex theories, or carefully guiding students through laboratory experiments while providing hands-on instruction and safety oversight.
Think about those moments when you struggled with a difficult concept in college, and someone helped bridge the gap between the professor’s lecture and you’re understanding. That’s where Teaching Assistants (TAs) shine, serving as an essential link between faculty and students.
They support faculty members while developing their own teaching and research skills. Many are graduate students working toward advanced degrees, making this position a vital stepping stone in academic careers.
Total employment: 184,600 (2023)
Common Names for Teaching Assistants, Postsecondary
- Graduate Assistant
- Graduate Fellow
- Graduate Research Assistant
- Graduate Student
- Graduate Student Instructor (GSI)
- Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA)
- Research Assistant (RA)
- Teaching Assistant (TA)
- Teaching Fellow
What Teaching Assistants, Postsecondary Do
Teaching Assistants at the postsecondary level play a key role in supporting professors and enhancing student learning. Their core responsibilities include:
- Classroom Support: Assist professors during lectures by distributing materials, operating educational technology, and facilitating student participation to ensure smooth instructional delivery and enhanced learning experiences.
- Student Assessment: Grade assignments, quizzes, and examinations following established rubrics and guidelines to provide timely feedback on student performance and progress.
- Office Hours Management: Hold regular consultation hours to address student questions, clarify course content, and provide additional academic support, helping students better understand course materials.
- Course Material Preparation: Collaborate with faculty to prepare lecture materials, lab exercises, and teaching aids that align with course objectives and support effective instruction.
- Administrative Tasks: Maintain accurate records of student attendance, grades, and participation while ensuring confidentiality of student information in compliance with educational policies.
- Laboratory Supervision: Monitor and guide students during laboratory sessions, ensuring safety protocols are followed and learning objectives are met (specific to science and technical courses).
- Research Assistance: Support faculty research projects by collecting data, conducting literature reviews, and assisting with basic analysis to contribute to departmental research goals.
- Student Progress Monitoring: Track student performance and identify those who may need additional support, helping maintain academic standards and student success rates.
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