american geosciences institute
connecting earth, science and people

Teaching Assistants, Postsecondary

Credit: Center for Teaching Vanderbilt University, CC BY-NC 2.0 on Flickr

A teaching assistant (TA) is responsible for supporting professors in the delivery of course material to students. The specific responsibilities of a TA can vary depending on the course and the institution, but generally they are expected to be knowledgeable about the course content and able to communicate it effectively to students. In the geosciences, a TA may be responsible for

  • Leading classes, grading assignments and exams, holding office hours, and providing general academic support to students in areas such as geology, oceanography, meteorology, or environmental science.

  • Assisting with laboratory experiments or field trips, where they help students collect data and analyze results.

  • Providing mentorship and guidance on academic skills such as time management, study techniques, and research methods. This could also include helping students understand complex concepts related to earth processes, climate change, and sustainability.

Read more about this occupation on O*NET OnLine at www.onetonline.org/link/summary/25-9044.00

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