Growing a Garden Without Water: Graduate teaching assistants in introductory science laboratories at a doctoral/research university

Author: 
Luft, Kurdziel, Roehrig, Turner
Year: 
2004
Bibliography Information: 
Julie A. Luft, Josepha P. Kurdziel, Gillian H. Roehrig & Jessica Turner. Journal of Research in Science Teaching, 41(3), 211-233 (2004).

Studied 17 graduate TAs in sciences and 8 support staff. Found a variety of failures of two modes of grad TA prep - pre semester program (GATO) and dept specific weekly programs - TAs end up in the direct mode of instruction.

Conclude that lack of training and support to facilitate learner-centered instruction meant that TAs taught traditionally. One barrier to provide such support is that institutions do not reward/value faculty and staff commitment to undergraduate education. Authors recommend increased accountability to ensure that faculty and other support staff provide TAs with the support they need.
 
www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/107630356/abstract

 

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