Describes the benefits of exposing teaching assistants to various theories of composition along with a translation of that theory into practice. Examines three basic approaches: (1) basic training, (2) observation and apprenticeship, (3) and the advanced writing seminar. Contains a detailed course description and syllabus. (EL)

The key to initiating a training program for new composition instructors or teaching assistants (TAs), or for successfully maintaining one already in place, is to understand that TAs need to be acclimated to the discourse of composition. In addition, departments must clearly define the theories and goals underlying composition instruction, and…

A University of London (England) study investigated attitudes of 282 graduate teaching assistants (GTAs) concerning teaching skill instruction they receive. Pre-workshop surveys over three years found a consistent pattern of anxieties and problems. Workshops were provided to address these concerns. The workshops used brainstorming, simulation,…