University Writing

What the TAs thought of TA Training (Fall 2009)

What was most helpful about the workshop? 
What were some of the most important things you learned?


- Learning how to grade fairly and still help the student maintain their self-esteem
- Good examples, helpful resourcces
- I enjoyed discussions about how to give more specific and thought-provoking comments on student papers
- I was able to foster better relationships with my Psych. TA colleagues
- Time-saving tips, what's really important in the paper
- I learned that less can be more [when commenting on papers], which makes me feel less pressured
- The comments and experiences of other TA's
- food = Fantasitic! (Above and beyond expectations!)
- I've taught 3 years and always had trouble with [grading]. This should be a mandatory class for new BYU professors!  
      (professor, not TA but a nice plug for the workshop)


How do you think this training will influence your work as a TA?


- I think I'm more confident now. Thank you!
- I will be more aware of the student perspective . . . able to give students a constructive critique of their paper
- It will speed up and normalize some of my grading
- My help will be a lot more positive, encouraging, and focused on the most important aspects of their writing
- I think it will help me put the responsibility of writing back on the students
- It will help me stick more closely to the rubric given me by my professor