BETWEEN A ROCK AND A HARD PLACE – INSIGHTS FROM TEACHING ASSISTANTS IN HIGHER EDUCATION

A teaching assistant (TA) is someone who supports teachers and students in the classroom.In general, the role of a TA can vary widely depending on the school, grade level, and specific needs of the classroom.Some common responsibilities of a teaching assistant may include assisting with instructions, for example with instructional activities, such as working with small groups of students, providing one-on-one assistance, and helping to explain concepts.A TA may also be used to assist classroom management, to help maintain a productive and orderly classroom environment by managing student behavior and reinforcing classroom rules.A TA may also assist in preparing e. g. written materials for hand-outs and other resources for lessons, such as setting up equipment, organizing materials, and ensuring supplies are ready.TA resource may also be used to support the special needs students in inclusive classrooms, TAs often work closely with students who have special needs, providing individualized support and adapting materials as needed thus alleviating the teacher's resource.Teaching assistants play a crucial role in enhancing the learning experience for students and supporting teachers in creating an effective educational environment.How is the situation in higher education institutes?Our university employs senior students for the positions 'to oversee' the younger ones.In addition to the previously mentioned, the duties may, and often do, also include assessment of assignments and communications with the students in premeditated areas, such as the assignment or schedules related questions.The challenging situations may arise when there is a deliverable to be read and evaluated from a peer of the TA.Thus, the work field of the TA is rather versatile and demanding.How do the TA's perceive their position?Seems that personal attitude and integrity play a significant role.An additional interesting question is, how are they chosen for the job and later allocated to the individual courses?In addition to motivation to take part in higher education, one of the most used qualifications in allocating is having accomplished successfully the course for which a TA is sought for.How are all the assignments on courses handled objectively and fairly?Are they?This paper asks such questions and sheds light upon the previously unasked questions how a TA handles such situations and individual sentiments by interviewing a number of TAs from various courses with altering responsibilities.The answers deepen the understanding of this invaluable staff group at our university.