Building Excellence in Graduate Teaching Assistants: Start Strong by Building Community and Confidence in the Classroom

Friday, August 22, 2025 :: 12:00-1:00 PM

Park Library | 413

Intended Audience: CMU Faculty

Facilitated by: Sarah Learman (Primary) and Brooke Moore (Facilitator)

In partnership with the Office of Research and Graduate Studies (ORGS), CIS is pleased to introduce the Building Excellence in Graduate Teaching Assistants Series. Additionally, these sessions are designed to prepare graduate students for their teaching roles at CMU, enhance their teaching skills, increase their pedagogical knowledge and practice, and equip them with the tools and strategies necessary to support undergraduate education effectively. GTAs will receive guidance in various pedagogical techniques, teaching methods, and classroom management strategies. They will also have ample opportunities to speak, share, solve problems, and collaborate with session facilitators. This six-part series is offered on-site in Park Library on Fridays from 12:00 p.m. to 1 p.m. throughout the fall semester. Lunch will be provided to registrants. How do you make the most of your first class to create a comfortable, welcoming learning environment, build rapport with your students and faculty, set clear expectations for your students and yourself, and establish appropriate boundaries? This interactive session will explore the importance and value of creating a safe learning environment. We will examine ways to be clear and assertive while establishing boundaries and setting expectations.