Training Teaching Assistants in Inquiry-Based Learning

 

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2013, Volume 34

Amy Marion

Abstract

Inquiry-based laboratory exercises are usually a new learning experience for undergraduate students. We may also overlook that inquiry-based learning could be a new experience for many of our Graduate Teaching Assistants. The NMSU Biology Department runs a two to three day Graduate TA Orientation each August which begins by introducing the TAs to inquiry-based learning. We discuss the philosophy and objectives of this teaching method and the TAs experience an inquiry-based activity for themselves. The purpose of this activity is to allow the TAs to gain some insight into what their students will encounter in the laboratory course. Participants in this mini workshop will learn about the topics covered in our TA Orientation program. The primary focus of the mini workshop will be conducting the activities we use to train TAs in inquiry-based learning.

Keywords:  TA training, Inquiry-based learning

University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill (2012)