Teaching Assistant Training Programme

Welcome to the Teaching Assistant Training Programme

Our Teaching Assistant Training Programme is designed to equip newly hired Teaching Assistants (TAs) with the necessary skills and knowledge required for success in higher education. This mandatory programme ensures that all TAs are well-prepared to engage with students, deliver high-quality teaching, and contribute to the learning environment at our University. Completing this programme is essential for retaining your Teaching Assistant status.

Core concepts of teaching in higher education

The training programme focuses on several core concepts of teaching in higher education, with a special emphasis on:

• student-centred learning: understanding the importance of placing students at the heart of the learning process, creating an inclusive and engaging environment;
• interactive teaching: developing techniques to foster interaction and active participation in the classroom;
• effective feedback: learning how to provide constructive and impactful feedback to students, helping them to grow and improve; and
• successful lesson planning: gaining skills in planning and organising lessons that are clear, engaging, and effective.

These core concepts are underpinned by modern theories of higher education, ensuring that our TAs are equipped with contemporary and evidence-based teaching practices.

Flexible learning options

We understand that flexibility is key for busy TAs, so we offer two options to complete the training programme:

1. Synchronous Learning in Week One: Participate in four 90-minute workshops held during the first week of each semester. These interactive sessions provide a dynamic and collaborative learning experience, allowing you to engage directly with trainers and peers; and
2. Asynchronous Learning from Week Two to Seven: Complete the training programme at your own pace through our online platform. This option includes accessing materials and resources, and submitting an assessment via Learning Mall Online.

For more information, please visit the Teaching Assistant Training Programme page on Learning Mall Online or email the Coordinator, Alan Meek at alan.meek@xjtlu.edu.cn. Join us in this exciting journey to develop your teaching skills and make a positive impact on our students’ learning experiences. We look forward to supporting you in becoming an effective and confident TA.