TF Training within EPS

 1. EPS First-time TF Training Seminar

All EPS graduate students teaching for the first time are required to attend a three-hour seminar offered by the EPS preceptors just prior to the term in which they will be teaching. If TFs cannot attend the EPS First-Time TF training, they may attend selected sessions of the Bok Center Fall Teaching Conference or Winter Teaching Week. The training must include the opportunity for microteaching and feedback. Topics covered during the seminar include introducing your first section, basic teaching tools, lesson planning, and providing feedback.  

2. G1 TF Training Workshops

All EPS graduate students are encouraged to attend the EPS G1 Teaching Workshops in the spring of their G1 year. The series of two one-hour workshops during spring term introduce G1s to the requirements and types of courses and students they will work with as TFs.

3. Additional EPS Teaching Workshops

All TFs and TAs are invited to occasional one-hour workshops that may be offered in both the fall and spring terms. These workshops discuss effective strategies for EPS and EPS-related courses. Topics may include encouraging academic integrity and experienced TFs or faculty sharing teaching experience.

4. EPS TF Lunch

At the beginning of each term, the EPS preceptors host a lunch for all TFs and TAs in EPS and EPS-related courses. At this informal gathering, TFs/TAs are encouraged to share concerns and ask questions of each other and the preceptors, who provide a description of logistical support that will take place during the term and a list of helpful resources. TFs/TAs are reminded of policies concerning Title IX, FERPA, AEO, the Honor Code, etc...

TF Training from the Bok Center

In addition to the training provided by the preceptors within EPS, TFs/TAs are encouraged to participate in training provided by the Bok Center for Teaching and Learning (detailed on their website).

1. The Bok Center Fall Teaching Conference and Winter Teaching Week 

The Bok Center holds a Fall Teaching Conference and Winter Teaching Week each year. These pre-semester conferences offer new teaching fellows a chance to prepare for the semester, as well as for more experienced teachers and scholars to continue to develop their skills and to explore areas of interest in teaching and learning.

2. Bok Seminars

Bok Seminars offer graduate students the opportunity to explore an area of interest in teaching and learning over multiple sessions. Seminars vary in length and intensity based on their focus areas and goals.

3. Professional Communication Program for International Teachers and Scholars

As a professional development resource for international graduate students, teachers and scholars, the Bok Center offers programming and individual consultations on speaking and presentation skills (including English language proficiency); teaching and learning in Harvard classrooms; and intercultural communication.

4. Teaching Certificate

Students who wish to take a full menu of seminars, seek feedback on their teaching, and develop a teaching portfolio are eligible to receive a Teaching Certificate from the Bok Center. Requirements include completing seminars, practice teaching, creating a teaching portfolio, and reflecting on teaching.

5. Additional Workshops

The Bok Center's staff and fellows routinely offer workshops on an array of topics, ranging from how to plan for the first day of section to how to assemble a teaching portfolio for the job market. Workshops are advertised on the Bok Center website or may be requested for a particular group.