Walking the tightrope between constructive criticism, empathy, and motivation is not always straightforward when it comes to performing as a GA/TA. Student expectations, coupled with the demands of a position that expects the highest level of integrity, can sometimes lead to blurred lines of communication. This workshop helped GA/TAs assimilate 10 commandments of being an effective TA/GA. They also learned some tips to deal with the dual role of being a student and a teacher simultaneously.

How do you get your point across? How do you explain complex ideas to confused people who have just graduated high school? Surprisingly, forty minutes of pointless droning rarely helps students understand.

In this interactive session, participants had an opportunity to engage in a variety of activities related to best practices in mentoring and facilitating student learning, as they relate to both the classroom setting and one on one tutoring. This workshop helped the dedicated participant to: a) acquire an attitude for working towards student learning, b) recognize the responsibilities of a mentor, and c) reflect on their processes as a GA/TA and mentor.

This workshop was designed to engage participants in developing effective strategies for grading essay exams and major papers, for providing meaningful feedback, and for handling grade challenges. A must for all GA/TAs who will be involved in grading student work!

Is the idea of giving undergraduate students the freedom to openly discuss material in class intimidating? This seminar introduced participants to a variety of methods for facilitating productive in-class discussions. The seminar featured favourites such as: "They're all staring at me, now what?", "Which types of questions will promote student interest and engagement", "How do I work with that student who likes to share so many of their thoughts?", and "How do I avoid 'killing' discussion?". Useful "dos" and "don'ts" regarding avenues to productive deliberation, debate, and dialogue were provided along with first hand experiences of productive and non-productive discussions.