Vision Plan: Letter of Intent

Innovation in Education: P
Emerging Technologies and Research:
Residential and Community Campus: S
Resources, Size, and Composition: S
Other Areas of Impact:

Project Title: Comprehensive Preparation for Mathematics Teaching Assistants

Abstract: The math department will formalize the training of graduate teaching assistants to enhance our efficacy as a service department, improve undergraduate mathematics instruction, and to increase students' knowledge of successful teaching practices.

During fall orientation, faculty members demonstrate the presentation of first year math topics. Workshops include lecturing techniques, cooperative learning, effective chalkboard use, grading, and bridging the culture gap between international and American students.

During the fall semester, new teaching assistants observe and assist experienced faculty. In pedagogy classes, TAs practice teaching techniques through videotaped presentations. They develop teaching portfolios that include sample lesson plans. The class requires discussions and writing about issues within typical MTU math classes.
Spring semester special topic workshops include the teaching of complex subjects and individual student learning difficulties.

Project Leader Name: Project/LeadContact: Margaret M. Balachowski
Project Leader Dept: Mathematics
Project Leader Email: mmbalach
Project Leader Phone: 7-3414
Lead #1 Name: Co-Project Lead #1: Shari Stockero
Lead #1 Dept: Mathematics
Lead #1 Email: stockero
Lead #1 Phone: 7-2938
Lead #2 Name: Co-Project Lead #2: Mark Gockenbach
Lead #2 Dept: Mathematics
Lead #2 Email: stockero
Lead #2 Phone: 7-8083

Letters of Intent Home

Strategic Plan Home