UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – During the last academic year, technical teaching assistants (Tech TAs) provided important support to Penn State faculty teaching in virtual and hybrid modes. For fall 2021, the program will expand its services to better aid teaching and learning as the University transitions to primarily in-person instruction.
Tech TAs originated as “Zoom gurus” who managed virtual classroom technology and allowed faculty to focus exclusively on teaching. They will continue to serve in that capacity for in-person, hybrid, and virtual courses in the upcoming year while also assisting with Canvas.
In Zoom, a Tech TA’s work can include creating and assigning breakout rooms, moderating the chat, running polls, and processing a class’s Zoom recording. In Canvas, meanwhile, they can migrate and input course content, activate learning tool integrations (LTIs), build assignments or quizzes, and more.
Faculty should note that Tech TAs are not trained to proctor or grade exams, quizzes, or assignments. Additionally, Tech TAs cannot design course material or attend in-person classes or events.
Beginning at 7 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 4, faculty can submit a Tech TA Request Form. Upon being paired with a Tech TA, faculty will receive an introductory email and then a direct follow-up from their Tech TA to determine specific needs and next steps.