Teaching
Teaching and demonstrating while completing a PhD can be a highly rewarding experience. The University have a commitment to make sure that Postgraduates who Teach (PGWTs) are trained, supported and have the opportunity to evaluate and develop their teaching skills. The GSA have a role in ensuring this commitment is met, and represents PGWT students in discussions at various committees and steering groups.
Our PGWT Representative is elected to represent all students who teach, and works with Academic Affairs Officer. In the 2009/10 academic year, the PGWT Strategy was revised in collaboration with the GSA, and new procedures put in place. So 2010/11 is the first year the new procedures have been enforced, and we are interested to know how these are working. If you are currently a PGWT, we would like to hear your thoughts, both positive and negative, so we can include these in our discussions with the University. Email our PGWT Rep with your thoughts!
Opportunities
All departments must now advertise teaching and demonstrating opportunities to all students within the department, and all interested must go through an application procedure. For more information, contact your departments PGWT Coordinator.
Training
The Researcher Development Team (RDT) offer courses specific to helping PGWT students develop their teaching and assessment skills. It is now compulsory that all students complete the RDT Introduction to Teaching & Learning course before you can commence any teaching. Log onto Skills Forge for more information. Other training opportunities will be advertised by the RDT and GSA when these become available.
Recognition
PGWT are now eligible to apply for a University Teaching Award, which recognises excellence in teaching and learning. These awards are made late in the autumn term. Watch out in your department for invitations to apply.
