SUBJECT:  GUIDELINES FOR USE OF TEACHING ASSISTANTS IN LARGE CLASSES

APPLICABILITY:  ACADEMIC DEPARTMENTS

Faculty require logistical support when teaching large lecture sections as well as assistance to meet specialized instructional needs. The need is particularly strong when the nature of the course requires essay tests, homework assignments, and term papers as well as normal administrative classroom assignments including test administration and grading. In addition, the use of audiovisual aids usually requires the presence of a reliable operator. Faculty also need assistance outside the lecture hall to help students with the subject matter and in solving other student-related problems. There are significantly different course needs that reflect on the pedagogy of courses as a result of increased size, advances in technology incorporated into teaching and research assignments, and the need to provide contact with students.

The following guidelines are intended to help maintain a quality learning environment in the large class format.

1. One teaching assistant (TA) is needed for approximately every 75 students. TAs who grade exams and other assignments must attend the lectures if requested by the instructor.

2. TAs should be employed for the particular needs of the course according to appropriate qualifications. Tasks (e.g., grading essay exams) requiring more sophisticated judgement should be assigned to TAs with more qualifications and experience.

3. The academic unit should supply a space where TAs and students can interact during regularly-scheduled office hours.

4. The academic unit shall establish an ongoing training and evaluation program for TAs. The training and direction of teams of TAs should be considered in faculty workload assignments. An expedient means of lessening the pressure on faculty is to designate an experienced TA as a logistical coordinator for a course of multiple sections of large classes.

* Policy reviewed with no changes made