Guidelines for the Teaching Assistant

1.

Teaching Assistants are expected to attend lectures in the course in which they are assisting if so asked by the instructor. They are expected to know the content of the course, methods of teaching used by the professor, and the relative importance of the subject matter.

2.

Teaching Assistants are responsible for assisting the professor in charge of the course in the formulation, administration and grading of quizzes and examinations given in the course. Specific responsibilities will be discussed with the professor in charge.

3.

Quiz sections should be conducted along guidelines specified by the professor in charge of the course. The quiz sections are an integral part of each course and are expected to meet for the full 50 minutes in the assigned classroom. Teaching Assistants may not dismiss class early unless directed to do so by the professor in charge of the course.

4.

The Teaching Assistant will be informed what part he or she will play in the final exam process regarding grading and averaging and recording grades. The assignment of final course grades is the responsibility of the professor in charge of the course. No Teaching Assistant may leave campus until final exam grades for their course have been turned in to registration.

5.

At the beginning of the semester, professors and Teaching Assistants together should plan office hours and then announce office hours to their classes.

6.

Teaching Assistants are expected to spend an average of 20 hours per week working in the course in which they are assisting. This average includes time in class, in preparation for class, and in grading of quizzes and exams.

7.

You cannot give out information on student performance (including grades) over the telephone. You cannot give out final exams. If students wish to see them, you will need to make an appointment to meet them after classes have ended, or leave the exams with a secretary in 501 Ewing and have students check with the secretaries. Final exams must remain in the department for one year after students take them.

8.

Renewal of assistantships is not automatic. Continued support is contingent upon appropriate progress towards a degree and satisfactory performance of assigned duties as a graduate assistant.

9.

Teaching Assistants may not be absent during any semester without permission of the Associate Chair.