As a graduate physics student I have the privilege of teaching first year physics labs.  I explain the apparatus, demonstrate the experiment, answer students’ questions, mark their reports, and strive to provide helpful feedback. I’ve been actively working to improve my teaching skills through an on-campus centre for teaching excellence called the Teaching Commons at York University. Their office is dedicated to teaching and learning innovation across campus.

In 2015-2016, I received the Junior Record of Completion, and in 2016-2017 the Senior Record of Completion for attending 5 workshops and the Supporting Teaching at York (STAY) symposium each year. In Fall 2016, I enrolled in an extra-curricular, SEDA accredited course called TACT: Teaching Assistant Certificate in Teaching.

Through this course I participated in several workshops, including:

1. Supporting First Year Students in Transition
2. Making Meaningful Connections With Your Students
3. Teaching in a Multi-Cultural Classroom
4. Using Active Learning Strategies in your Teaching
5. Classroom Strategies for When They Haven’t Done the Readings
6. Participatory Learning: How to Engage Your Students

I also participated in 5 face-to-face sessions and 5 online modules which explored key issues in learning and teaching in higher education.  Evaluations included a 10-minute mini-lesson and the creation of a Teaching Dossier, which includes a personal Teaching Philosophy Statement.

I really enjoyed my time at the Teaching Commons. I learned a lot, met some wonderful people, and improved my teaching skills. I highly recommend that graduate students at York University take full advantage of these programs!