The Student Life Task Force acted on students’ concerns about the training of international Teaching Fellows last week by petitioning for Provost Dennis Berkey’s support. The students outlined ways that the University can ensure that TFs have the best possible training before leading discussion classes and labs. Many faculty members have already given their support to this effort, according to Student Union Chair of Academic Affairs Jennifer Cross.
While many students can identify with poor experiences with TFs who could not speak clear, understandable English, not all TFs fall into this category. The Task Force made the appropriate recommendation that the University “filter international TFs through a more rigorous screening process,” which would weed out ill-prepared graduate students before they reach the classrooms.
In calling for a more intense training program that focuses specifically on English as a second language and a proficiency exam to qualify students to teach, the Task Force also succeeded in hitting the heart of the complaints.
Regardless of whether TFs originate from countries outside the United States, they need to have good teaching skills. Far too often, TFs with an immense understanding of their topic fail to communicate their knowledge of the course materials to their students. This leaves students on the short end of the learning experiences.
Berkey should decide to back these measures because they address students’ quality of education and the school’s teaching staff. Improving the training programs for TFs can only benefit students and the University.
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