8.6 Role 3: Instructing/demonstrating

You may typically invite TAs to lead tutorial, discussion, or lab sections, or conduct guest lectures. In this section, please consider how these instruction sessions may change when you move your course online.

What contributions could your TAs offer in this role?

• Filming demonstrations for students to watch.
• Being available to monitor and answer questions from students who are conducting virtual or simulated laboratory experiments.
• Preparing materials for distribution to students (e.g. lab kits for mail-out.)

Questions to consider

How much time will you dedicate to TA instruction/demonstration?

• Will you expect your TAs to create new demonstrations, lab manuals, videos, etc.?
• Do you expect your TAs to interact with students during synchronous sessions they may lead? How will you support your TAs to manage the logistics of those interactions (i.e. time for breaking into groups, giving the TAs time to set up their demonstration)?
• How will you ensure your TAs’ health and safety during any synchronous or asynchronous lab demos or other potentially hazardous work if they are working remotely?

What skills or training might your TAs need?

• Provide your TAs with an opportunity to practice before leading a synchronous class.
• If new tools are being used, direct them to explore the tool guides on the LT Hub website.
• Provide your TAs with resources for responding to students who may be experiencing difficulty or need mental health support.