The subsequent sections of this handbook have been written so that they will be generally useable by TAs across the campus. MSU employs teaching assistants in almost every department and several program offices. These departments utilize TAs in various ways. Even within departments, TAs may have different levels of responsibility. Even in situations where the TA is the instructor, responsibilities widely vary.
Some departments provide a syllabus and determine the course objectives.
Other departments expect the TA to set grading polices, write a syllabus, and to construct tests and assignments. There are many variations in between. The following is a list of some of the positions TAs across campus occupy. Section numbers that will be of particular interest to TAs are in parentheses, but we stress that for most TA assignments the information presented in this handbook as a whole is applicable. Teaching One's Own Section.