Being A Teaching Assistant

Generally astronomy graduate students are required to TA for 2 semesters over the course of their study at the University. However, this amount can change based on various factors, including financial factors. Most students will TA once during their first two years, and then one more time during their subsequent years.

In most cases, a grader is provided for each lecture course.

TA RESPONSIBILITIES : Lecture courses (100,103,104)

Description

Hours*

Attend all weekly lectures	30-45
Conduct discussion sections for 15 weeks	90 (6 discussions / week)
Preparation time for discussion sections	45
Office hours for 14 weeks	85-100
Orientation/Training (initial and ongoing)	20
Conduct evening observing sessions	20
Assist with exam preparations	6
Clerical work (i.e. record grades)	45
Conduct extra sessions (i.e. exam reviews)	6

Total Possible Hours

360

TA RESPONSIBILITIES : Lab courses (110,113,114)

Description

Hours*

Conduct lab sections for 15 weeks	120 (4 labs / week)
Drop-in lab each week for 15 weeks	45
Grade 9 labs	108 (12 hours/each)
Clearical work (i.e. record lab results)	35
Preparation for labs	12
Orientation/Training (initial and ongoing)	40

Total Possible Hours

360

* Hours are approximate and based on a 50% appointment. The hours listed are the total amount over the course of a semester.

Useful Links

Teaching Assistant's Assocaition

Great TA resource: Guidance Online for Astronomy Teachers (GOAT)