Don't Panic: Friendly Advice on Teaching Your First Course as a Graduate Assistant

As a new graduate or teaching assistant it may be difficult adjusting to the dual role of student and instructor, since most of a graduate students' academic career is as a student. Moreover, the majority of undergraduates in the sciences do not study teaching methods as their main focus is on their major. The dual role of student / instructor brings with it some new responsibilities—educating others is now part of the job. New issues to deal with include setting up a course, getting through the first day, presenting the material effectively, and encouraging all students, including women. Entire manuals have been written devoted to teaching methods, classroom management, and general advice for more effective teaching. Therefore, this paper is not comprehensive; instead we share ideas of where to start, and present some references for further information.