The most enduring principle is that graduate students should enter the academic profession as competent professionals who have already begun a process of growth as teachers and scholars in the academic community . Workshop Series Workshops and panel discussions which deal with issues specifically relevant to instructors who teach in University classrooms are held weekly during the fall and spring semesters. Possible topics might include lecturing, strategies for active learning, and leading an effective discussion, along with many others. Registration information may be obtained from the program or from the students academic department. A member of the Program for Instructional Excellence is usually available to discuss, on an individual basis, any aspect of an instructors teaching assignment.
Consultations are available on an appointment or walk-in basis.
Microteaching Microteaching involves videotaping a segment of an actual or simulated teaching situation for the purpose of offering performance feedback to instructors. The main advantage of microteaching is that it allows instructors to view themselves from an outside perspective. Typically, a staff member will videotape part or all of an instructor's class and then meet with the teaching assistant to discuss the tape and offer feedback. Since microteaching is applicable to lectures, labs, and discussion sections, many teaching assistants find the experience rewarding as it offers a chance to view one's teaching from a student's perspective. A staff member can also observe actual classes without the aid of videotape and report back to the instructor.