Webinar: A Model for Attracting and Retaining Quality Undergraduate TAs

Our webinar this week focused on a topic that we haven't covered before, but is really critical for faculty to manage large size courses. Dr. Lynda Mae shared her model for "recruiting, training and retaining Undergraduate TAs".

Dr. Mae uses the UTAs to directly work with students, and allow grad students to work at a higher focused level. They hold office hours throughout the week, and answer the "24/7" question board to support evenings and weekends. She solicits feedback from them for improving the courses because they have a great perspective. She uses the group of UTAs to test instructions and rubrics for clarity. 

Recruiting:

• Send personal emails to congratulate students with outstanding grades
• Work with the Advising staff to post an ad in newsletter, and put flyers in a hall
• Contact honors clubs, and specialty clubs
• Ask current TAs to recruit others
• Tip: Emphasize the benefits to them, including a letter for grad school, possibly volunteer hours, or academic credit

Selecting:

• Interview the top candidates with your TA Team (below is the application template)
• Require reference letters
• Ask tough questions (see the questions below)
• Look for social skills as well as content knowledge. Would this student be able to communicate well and be a mentor for other students?

Retaining:

• Give UTAs opportunities for developing leadership skills by promoting them from first year
• Give them professional training for future jobs
• Be their mentor for preparing for grad school
• Build relationships that allow UTAs to feel connected to you by celebrating milestones, bringing in food, and cheering their "wins" 

Dr. Mae shared why these UTAs should be considered one of our most valuable resources for quality teaching, and how to work with them. She encouraged everyone to open their minds to this model for supporting students.

Resources:

• Recording of webinar
• PDF of slides
• Application Template
• Interview Questions