Description: The objective of this class is to provide mentorship and guidance in teaching, leadership and research pertaining to human physiology. Undergraduate teaching assistants (UTAs), in addition to Dr. Harris and the graduate TAs, will be part of the educational team. Zoology 2404 is a large (~ 300 student) lecture which is taught in a non-traditional manner – it is centered on active learning and case studies. UTAs are fundamental in executing assignments and activities in a large lecture setting. UTAs will receive instruction on assignments, and on implementing effective mentoring and teaching strategies that will directly translate to career-oriented skills.
Duties: Attend weekly TA meetings; complete active learning/case study material prior to lecture; participate in meeting discussions; attend lecture on Thursdays; mentor lecture students during class activities; grade case study assignments; be an active, cooperative, professional member of our teaching team. UTAs will also be asked to work in pairs/small groups to develop teaching material and case studies. Attendance at Tuesday lectures is highly encouraged.
Prerequisites: To be considered for the UTA position, students need to have earned a B+ or higher in Anatomy and Physiology I AND II; OR, a B or above in a comparable course (e.g., Comparative Physiology; Animal Physiology; Endocrinology; etc.). Biology 1404 or 1402 desired, but not required.
Benefits: Participate in a teaching team; work on organization, management, and professional skills; gain a deeper understanding of physiology; practice mentoring and communication skills; experience education from the other side; gain experience for medical/graduate school; earn 3 credits that count towards your GPA; gain opportunity for letter of recommendation (from Dr. Harris); gain opportunity to author/co-author and submit a case study for publication.
Instructor/Supervisor: Dr. Breanna Harris
Still interested? Awesome!
Please email Dr. Harris for an application (breanna.n.harris@ttu.edu).
