Center for Excellence in TeachingSupport on Your TA Journey at USC!
Stepping into a teaching assistant role is an exciting opportunity to support student learning and develop your own pedagogical skills. This TA Toolkit is a practical starting point to help you lead discussions and labs, foster welcoming and engaging learning environments, give meaningful feedback, and navigate key policies and professional expectations with confidence. You’ll also find resources on sustaining your work and well-being, responding to challenging classroom situations, and using Brightspace effectively. Use these materials as needed, whether you’re preparing for your first section or continuing to refine your teaching practice over time.
Note: Written resources download to your electronic device.
TA Decision Guide
A quick-reference tool to help TAs respond effectively to common student situations. For each scenario, the guide outlines the required steps and recommended actions for appropriate student support.
Core Principles of Effective TA Instruction
This 35-minute session from Spring 2026 TA Training introduces foundational principles for effective teaching in the TA role. It focuses on creating a positive and welcoming learning environment, communicating clearly with students, and supporting the course’s learning objectives through intentional instructional practices.
TA Responsibilities with Andrew McConnell Stott
This 30-minute session outlines the core responsibilities of the TA role and clarifies expectations for supporting faculty and students. It also offers practical guidance on communication, professional conduct, and key policies that shape effective and responsible teaching practice.
Brightspace TA Orientation
In this 26-minute session, the Brightspace ITS team shares best practices for TAs using Brightspace to support their courses. The video covers grading workflows, communication tools, content management, and practical tips for troubleshooting common issues.
Sustaining Well-being in the TA Role
This 19-minute session, led by Julie Loppacher, Director of the USC Kortschak Center for Learning and Creativity, focuses on sustaining wellness as a TA to prevent overwhelm and establish healthy boundaries. It offers practical insights and strategies for balancing your responsibilities, managing stress, and supporting your own well-being while you support student learning.
Panel Discussion: Responding to Challenging Student Situations as a TA
In this 48-minute panel discussion, campus leaders and faculty share guidance on navigating common challenging scenarios that may arise in the TA role. The session offers practical advice, multiple perspectives, and campus-informed strategies to help TAs respond thoughtfully and professionally in complex situations.
Want more? Check out CET’s Future Faculty Teaching Institute
CET’s Future Faculty Teaching Institute is a 12-session interactive series for graduate students and research postdocs who plan to teach in higher education. The sessions focus on the foundations of course design and effective instructional practices, with opportunities for hands-on practice and reflection; learn more here.