CSE 599, Fall 2007

Teaching Methods in Computer Science

Hands-On Project

See the instructions below for important information about submitting your paper.

For TAs leading discussion sections:

1. By October 10, arrange for CTD to videotape one of your sections before the paper is due on November 28. This could coincide with your CTD consultant's visit, but doesn't need to.
2. During October, visit one discussion section of each of your group mates. Exchange written and verbal feedback with them. Use this observation form and submit the completed form in class on October 31.
3. Take a mid-quarter survey of your students and compile the results. Ready-made and customizable evaluation questionnaires are available; use your judgement.
4. Watch your videotape at least twice, observing and taking notes. What surprised you? What pleased you? What made you cringe? What areas do you see for improvement?
5. Based on these notes and any feedback you've received about your teaching from students, your group mates, and your CTD consultant, write a thoughtful, well-organized paper constructively criticizing your performance in 400--800 words. Refer to topics in CSE 599 as appropriate.
6. Turn in the paper by Wednesday, November 28 at 12:00.

For everyone else:

1. Find a TA buddy, someone leading a discussion section in a course you suppose you could be a TA for in the future, perhaps a subject you know well.
2. Familiarize yourself with the course curriculum and arrange with your buddy to visit at least one discussion during October. Take notes and submit a completed observation form in class on October 31.
3. Plan a 20-minute lesson to give your group during class on November 7 or 14. This could be on the same topic as your TA buddy's course, but must be your own independent work.
4. Get written and verbal feedback from your group, and consider the following: What went as planned? What went awry, and why? What did you learn about planning and delivering a lesson?
5. Using the feedback you got, write a thoughtful, well-organized paper reflecting on your experience in 400--800 words. Refer to topics in CSE 599 as appropriate.
6. Turn in the paper by Wednesday, November 28 at 12:00.

Submission Instructions