Teaching Experience

PS 201 - Introduction to American Government & Politics (UG)

Teaching Assistant, Fall 2023

North Carolina State University

Course Description

This course introduces students to the workings of American Government. We will learn not only about American political institutions, such as the presidency, Congress, and the Supreme Court, but we will also learn about how the average American participates in government by covering topics such as voting, public opinion, and the media. We will explore why Americans seem to have increasing dissatisfaction with their government and attempt to explore the role that you as U.S. citizens and residents can take in improving democracy in America.

Discussion Sections 

Enrollment in a discussion section/lab, PS 201L, is a basic requirement of the course. This class will be in the format of lectures on Monday and Wednesday and a discussion section led by a teaching assistant on Friday. Participation is expected from all students in the class. At minimum, this means good attendance in discussion sections. In accordance with university policy, a record of student attendance will be kept and count towards your grade in the section. The discussion sections will focus on the reserve readings, current events, and

selected topics from lectures to be explored in greater depth. You will be graded on your active participation in discussion sections and demonstrated knowledge of assigned readings. Your grade will also include knowledge and effort on in-class writing assignments. Approximately 1/3 of your discussion section grade will be based on weekly Norton Inquizitive assignments for the assigned book chapter.

Highlights from Student Evaluations of the Course

"Nina was a great TA and it was clear that she cared about the students and wanted to help them succeed as much as possible. She was always asking how she could help us and what we needed from her which I think made our lab very effective overall." -- Fall 2023 student

"The instructor always came to class prepared and enthusiastic to teach. She always had a well thought out lesson for us and understood that participating in group discussions can be difficult for some personalities." -- Fall 2023 student

"Maybe it’s the smaller classes but I feel like I learned more in the TA lab sessions than in class by actually practicing the content via skits, quizzes, or practice short answer questions." -- Fall 2023 student

"Overall really enjoyed this, definitely something i looked forward to." -- Fall 2023 student