To accomplish the work with teaching assistants, the staff works closely with colleges and departments but may also work solely with teaching assistants upon request. The staff also invites consultation and discussion on a wide variety of instructional issues including classroom pedagogy, classroom management, student achievement, assessment on issues related to instruction, teaching portfolios, academic integrity, creating an optimal learning environment, and active learning. All of these activities and programs provide teaching assistants with many opportunities for follow-up consultation. Walk-ins are encouraged. The division also provides formal and informal programs and workshops on these and other topics for faculty, staff, and student groups.
Renewal is at the discretion of the department.
Departments have differing policies on the length of time students may hold assistantships and sometimes limit the total number of semesters or course sections an assistant may teach. Many departments require that teaching assistants attain and maintain certain teaching standards in order for their assistantships to be renewed. An appointment remains in effect only if the student maintains good academic standing, makes satisfactory academic progress, and provides satisfactory service. Assistants should be informed as early as possible of a department's intentions about renewing the assistant's appointment. If, because of enrollment or budget uncertainties, a department cannot make a firm commitment to a student about reappointment, a letter of intent should be sent to the assistant stating that these uncertainties exist and explicitly defining the department's plans once the situation is clarified.