Start-of-Term Checklist:
Faculty should add WAs to Course Canvas sites as "UGrad TAs", and provide them with copies of syllabi and assignments.
Faculty and WAs clarify logistical details for WA work, such as:
- dates when WAs will receive students' drafts and when WAs must complete feedback (Sample Schedule),
- dates when WAs will need to schedule meetings with students
- where scheduling polls for individual meetings will be shared or posted (Canvas Announcements are a good option)
- tools WAs will use to record feedback (e.g.: Google Docs, Comments on Microsoft Word, pencil and paper)
- how WAs will share a record of their work with faculty
- timing and nature of check-ins between WAs and faculty (probably at least twice during the term; perhaps weekly)
Faculty should explain the writing-related learning objectives for the course and how those objectives align with the course design.
Faculty should share expectations for relevant assignments to help WAs focus their feedback.
Faculty and WAs should agree on the protocol that WAs should follow if they suspect plagiarism in a draft.
Other Recommendations
Faculty should consider inviting WAs to meet their classes early in the term, schedules permitting, or asking WAs to record a short video introduction to post on Canvas.
Adding WAs to Canvas sites as Ugrad TAs gives them access to important course content (readings, assignment prompts, discussions, announcements, the roster) without giving them access to grades. If faculty choose to make WAs an Observers or Students on Canvas, they will need to send WAs the course roster (names and emails).
Ongoing communication is crucial for WA success. Faculty should consider requiring regular updates if they are not meeting frequently, and WAs should know the best methods for staying in close contact with Faculty.
Faculty should give feedback to WAs about the substance and style of their work by reviewing WA commentary or reviewing WAs' reports on their out-of-class meetings. While WAs want to serve as resources for your students, they are also eager to further their education. So, much like Presidential Scholars, WAs require mentoring.