This Week for Graduate Students: Fall 2024 Teaching Orientation and more!
CTL offers graduate student instructors orientation resources and sessions to learn about practical, evidence-based strategies that they can implement on the first day of class. These orientations help supplement department-based orientations and trainings. CTL orientations are open to all new teaching assistants, teaching fellows, and graduate students in an instructor role.
In Fall 2024, CTL is offering two forms of orientation:
- Comprehensive guidance online, available to graduate students anytime
- An in-person live orientation program on August 29
On-demand materials
Engage with five online orientation modules, available anytime, to help you plan for your teaching assignment, provide you with information about support resources, and offer models for getting off to an engaging, inclusive start with students.
In-person orientation
CTL is also offering a live teaching orientation program on Thursday, August 29, for new TAs and instructors looking for teaching community, peer mentorship, and individual feedback heading into the new semester. This in-person offering complements the on-demand modules listed above.
Current Columbia graduate students can request to join the morning session or the full day program.
Morning program: Experienced TA panel and individual guidance for developing first day of class plans and policies
Full day program: In addition to morning session, lunch with experienced TAs and practice teaching support
GSAS Fellowships in Academic Administration
The GSAS Fellowships in Academic Administration (FAA) program offers advanced doctoral students in Arts and Sciences departments the opportunity to gain experience in administrative offices across Columbia’s campuses. This program enhances graduate student professional development by supplementing the training GSAS students receive in research and teaching with an introduction to the day-to-day operations of the University. The experience allows students to cultivate a stronger professional profile and develop administrative skills in preparation for any future career. Applications are due Tuesday, August 20, 11:59pm EDT.
💡Resource Spotlight
Introduction to CourseWorks (Canvas) Online Course
Are you preparing a course for the fall semester and want tips for setting up your CourseWorks (Canvas) site? Enroll in the CTL’s Introduction to CourseWorks course on your own time!
This self-paced online course helps Columbia instructors learn about the various features offered by CourseWorks (Canvas). The course guides instructors through the steps of setting up their course site and highlights various features that enrich the learning experience for students. The course provides tips and examples that highlight the use of CourseWorks tools as applicable to various teaching and learning contexts.
Support this summer
Consultations: The CTL provides graduate students and postdocs with consultations at all points in their teaching career. These include consultations on teaching statements, professional development, preparing for the job market, teaching online, and general teaching-related support. Request a consultation.
On-demand guidance for teaching statements, diversity statements, and teaching portfolios is also available anytime. Or, send any questions to CTLgrads@columbia.edu.