Frequently Asked Questions

If you have a question that is not answered below, please contact us.

Faculty questions:

How are LAs different than UAs/UTAs (undergraduate teaching assistants)?

LAs receive pedagogical training through the Wheelock School of Education, which sets them apart from UTAs, and even many graduate teaching fellows. Research here at BU and at other institutions has shown that LAs are much more effective at guiding students, especially in small group learning environments, and are often more valuable in students’ experiences than the teaching fellows themselves.

Additionally, expectations of LAs are much higher than those of UTAs. We expect LAs to meet with faculty weekly, to make suggestions for course improvements, to create their own in-class activities, and to look up relevant literature regarding their discipline and pedagogy in general.

What are the benefits of the LA program?

We’ve compiled a list of benefits of the program here!

Who is in charge of the LA program?

Our leadership board heads the program, contained within the Office of the Provost and the Center for Teaching and Learning.

How are LAs selected?

Interested students apply through an online application, which is followed by interviews with faculty. Generally, the qualifications are:

Prospective LAs should have taken the course before
Prospective LAs should be free on Fridays from 4:30-6:15pm for the SED Education Theory seminar (if there are conflicts due to religious observances, we can accommodate!)
Prospective LAs want to help others succeed!

What should happen during weekly meetings with my LAs?

When you meet with LAs every week, you should be discussing how class went the previous week, and how you plan on running class the following week. LAs should have an active role in planning alongside faculty and teaching fellows, adding their own insights regarding the course and making suggestions based on their knowledge and experience. Additionally, these weekly meetings are a great time to check in with your LAs and give them a chance to reflect on their teaching abilities.

What are some learning assessment methods I can use?

There are several concept inventories (CI) available for you to use to assess learning. Examples include the Force Concept Inventory, the Chemical Concept Inventory, and the Biological Concepts Instrument. We recommend pre- and post-course assessment so that you can compare how much your students know at the beginning of the semester, and see how much they’ve learned in your course.

Student questions:

Can I be an LA for a course more than once if I really like the course?

While most LA positions are offered to new LAs, we do accept a limited number of returning LAs. There is a specific returning LA application for you to use, if you’re interested!

How many hours of work does being an LA entail?

Every week, LAs are expected to spend up to six hours in the classroom, two hours in SED SC521, and up to two hours meeting with faculty every week. Along with preparation for class, being an LA takes anywhere from 10-12 hours a week.

Will I have to grade assignments?

No. LAs do not grade assignments.

I want to be an LA for a course that doesn’t have LAs. What do I do?

There are many different ways you can request that LAs be added to a course! Check them out here.