Academic Kickoff

Welcome Remarks

Dean Kelly Mayo, The Graduate School 

Fostering Engagement & Enhancing Feedback for Student Success in the STEM Classroom

Facilitators: Assa Magassa (PhD Candidate, Department of Chemistry) & Sharath Narayan (PhD Candidate, Driskill Graduate Program) 

Develop practical strategies for promoting active learning and providing effective feedback in STEM courses. Participants will learn how to prepare for their first class meetings, implement engaging teaching techniques, and deliver timely, consistent feedback that supports student learning.

First Two Weeks as a TA in Social Science Departments 

Facilitators: Janvi Subramanyan (PhD Student, Department of Psychology) & Lucas Camara (PhD Candidate, Department of Political Science)

Learn about the roles and responsibilities of Teaching Assistants in the social sciences, including working effectively with faculty and students, facilitating classroom activities, and balancing teaching with other professional obligations. Participants will explore key policies, resources, and practical strategies to help them navigate their first weeks as a TA.

Real Stories, Real Solutions: First Two Weeks as a TA: Humanities Edition 

Facilitators: Kahlil Oates (Black Studies, PhD Candidate) & Sierra Rosetta (Interdisciplinary PhD in Theatre and Drama, PhD Candidate) 

Explore the essential responsibilities of Teaching Assistants in the humanities, with a focus on communication, professionalism, and student support. Participants will learn strategies for collaborating with instructors, establishing appropriate boundaries, and making the most of the TA experience as a graduate student.

Fostering Inclusion & Student Belonging in the Classroom

Facilitators: Ava Vedavato (PhD Candidate, Department of Political Science) & Cindy B Lima (PhD Candidate, Department of History) 

Learn how to foster inclusion, belonging, and student engagement in the classroom. Participants will explore how students' identities and experiences shape learning, examine inclusive teaching practices such as growth mindset and Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and leave with strategies they can apply in their work as TAs

Sparking Student Curiosity & Engagement Through Active Learning

Facilitators: Grayce Mores (PhD Candidate, Department of Microbiology) & Hannah Reynolds (PhD Candidate, Department of History) ​​​​​​​

Develop practical strategies for designing engaging lessons that align with instructional goals. Participants will learn how to create SMART learning goals using a backward design approach and select active learning techniques that effectively support student learning and achievement.

Teaching with Canvas

Abby Rosensweig, Learning Technologist 

Northwestern Room