CSE590IT:  TA Training Seminar, Invitation to Teaching

Autumn 2003



Instructor:  Hal Perkins
e-mail address:  perkins@cs.washington.edu
Office hours:  drop by any time
Course websitehttp://www.cs.washington.edu/education/courses/cse590it/03au/

Meeting Times and Location:  Tuesdays 2:30 - 3:20 pm in EE1 026

Content Overview:  This seminar provides teaching assistants in the Computer Science & Engineering Department a weekly meeting to discuss issues and build skills related to their teaching assistantship duties.  During the early part of the quarter, topics of immediate concern to new TAs will be discussed such as how to lead a quiz section and how to help students outside class.  This seminar gives teaching assistants an opportunity to reflect on their teaching skills and a place to develop, practice, and refine some of these skills during the quarter.  Some topics of discussion will be guided by the students to best address their concerns as new TAs in the department.

Participation:  Students can earn one hour of credit by completing small weekly homework and reading assignments; two activities completed outside of class, attending the weekly meetings, and participating in discussions and activities.  Discussions are usually centered around a theme involving some pre-assigned reading.  Please read/skim assigned material before attending class.  Additionally, students should meet with the instructor in conference at least once during the quarter.

Questions/Problems/Concerns:  As a teaching assistant in the department, you play a crucial role in the education of the undergraduates at UW.  You also play a critical and exciting role in the department.  If you are experiencing any problems with your TA duties, please contact me and I'll try to help you out.

Mailing ListThere will be a class mailing list/bulletin board... watch for an announcement

Tentative Schedule (see Schedule and Readings for updates)

September 30:  First Day of Class -- What To Do.  Effective Teaching

October 7:  Leading Discussions

October 14: Classroom Activities

October 21:  Classroom Management

October 28:  Dealing with Students Personally

November 4:  Active Learning in the Classroom

November 11:  Developing Homework and Exams

November 18:  Learning Styles and Teaching Styles

November 25:  Gender and Diversity Issues

December 2:  Effective Teaching -- Revisited

December 9:  The CS Curriculum