Teaching Assistant Orientation
TA Orientation Information
The Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) hosts the graduate TA Orientation each fall in the week before classes start. The 2024 orientation will be on Monday, August 12, 2024. There are programs for both new and returning TAs. Read on for more details about these programs, as well as links to register.
The CTL strives to design programs that accommodate all participants by implementing aspects of universal design. More details are provided about what to expect at TA orientation. Should you require accommodations to fully participate, please note these in the space provided on the registration form.
New Teaching Assistant Orientation
Monday, August 12, 2024
9:00 AM to 3:30 PM (agenda)
Interactive Learning Center (map) (check in on 1st floor)
Register for New Teaching Assistant Orientation
DESCRIPTION
This program is for graduate students who have not previously served as TAs at Boise State or who have not already attended TA orientation. Registration begins at 8:45 AM (program starts at 9:00 AM) and the program will conclude by 3:30 PM. Lunch is included! The orientation will include sessions on how learning works, who Boise State students are, campus resources, and multiple breakout sessions including:
- Creating meaningful learning in lab classes
- Providing students constructive feedback on writing
- Facilitation and reflective listening
- Active learning for minds-on engagement
- Managing teaching relationships
Returning Teaching Assistant Orientation
Monday, August 12, 2024
12:00 PM to 2:30 PM (agenda)
Interactive Learning Center (map) (check in on 3rd floor)
Register for Returning Teaching Assistant Orientation
DESCRIPTION
This program is for graduate students who have previously served as TAs at Boise State and who have already attended TA orientation in the past. Returning TAs will join us for lunch to meet new TAs from their programs and share information with them. There will then be a special breakout session for returning TAs on students’ prior knowledge – why it’s important for learning and what we can do about it.
International Teaching Assistant Welcome
Monday, August 12, 2024
3:30 PM to 4:15 PM
Interactive Learning Center (3rd floor, room TBD)
DESCRIPTION
International TAs – both new and returning – are invited to join us for this session. Staff members from International Student Services will be there to provide an overview of their services and to answer your questions. There will also be a panel of returning international TAs who will share their experiences serving as TAs and navigating graduate school at Boise State.
Requirements for participating in TA orientation
TA orientation is designed in a way that we hope all participants can engage. The “requirements” for TA orientation include:
- Scanning a QR code to register your attendance each session
- Engaging in group discussions
- Navigating a tiered classroom
- Attending sessions which use slideshows to share information and convey instructions
- Completing worksheet-type activities
- Using google forms to reflect on and evaluate the program
- Navigating a buffet-style lunch
- Moving between floors for different sessions
If any of these present a barrier to your participation, please be sure to make a note of the accommodations you need on the registration form so that we can make sure that TA orientation works for you!