The Teaching Assistant Orientation is designed to help TAs succeed by introducing them to the principles and practices of effective teaching and highlighting valuable teaching and learning resources at Drexel. Orientation is followed by the yearlong TA Mentorship Circle, which provides an opportunity for TAs to continue to network with each other and learn and develop their teaching skills throughout the fall, winter, and spring terms.
Why should I participate?
- Receive practical guidance on the art and science of teaching
- Learn about campus resources that are here to assist and support you and your students
- Build a community and network with fellow TAs
Do I have to attend the TA Orientation?
In-person attendance is required for all new, incoming graduate Teaching Assistants (TAs) and Teaching Fellows (TFs) and those who started after the fall term who have not yet attended the orientation. The orientation will not be livestreamed or recorded. Those unable to attend must contact teaching@drexel.edu in advance. TAs unable to participate in person will need to complete a small-group consultation and assignment.
Note: Students who completed the International Teaching Assistant (ITA) summer program exempt from this orientation, but welcome to attend. Returning TAs are also welcome to register for one or both programs.
When and where is the Orientation held?
The TA Orientation will be held on Monday, September 16, 2024, in DiPiero Grand Meeting Room (220) of Gerri C. LeBow Hall. Registration and Lunch will be held from 12:00pm to12:45pm (EST) and programming will begin promptly at 12:45pm. The building is numbered 61 on this campus map: https://drexel.edu/about/locations/university-city-campus/ucity-campus-map
Why should I participate?
- Develop pedagogical skills to improve your teaching and your students’ learning
- Share your concerns and get support handling real-world scenarios you encounter with your students throughout the academic year
- Build a community and network with fellow TAs
Do I have to participate in the Mentorship Circle?
TAs are strongly advised, but not required, to participate in the TA Mentorship Circle meetings. TAs who attend at least two mentorship meetings, complete the Essentials of College Teaching for TAs workshop and participate in any two additional workshops facilitated by the Teaching and Learning Center within a single academic year are eligible to receive a certificate of completion in the TA Mentorship Circle. The certificate of completion can be added to a CV and teaching dossier.
When and where will the TA Mentorship Circle meetings and TA workshop be held?
TA Mentorship Circle meetings will be held in-person during weeks 4 and 9 of the fall 2024 term. Additional meetings will be scheduled in Winter and Spring 2025. The TA workshop will be held through Zoom and scheduled once in the Fall, Winter, and Spring terms to allow additional TAs to participate as schedules may change throughout the academic year.
Fall Dates and Times
Essentials of College Teaching for TAs
- Monday, September 30, 2:00-4:00pm, Zoom
TA Mentorship Circle Meetings
- Tuesday, October 15, 9-10am, Hagerty Library, L-13B
- Wednesday, October 16, 4:00-5:00pm, Hagerty Library, L-23B
- Tuesday, November 19, 9-10am, Hagerty Library, L-13B
- Wednesday, November 20, 4:00-5:00pm, Hagerty Library, L-23B
Winter and Spring 2025 Dates and Times
*Dates will be made available in November.