Before considering graduate school, and definitely before applying, one should know that it is extremely different from the undergraduate system. Those few students who researched the book and author for undergraduate class discussions are no longer a few in number. It is the norm for everyone, and one is expected to do that researching. It is no longer optional. Another thing that might not have occurred is the sheer amount of teaching theory and conversations that take place about teaching. What is it like, what are the different ways to approach teaching, and how is teaching different at a teaching institution versus a research institution are a few of the conversations you will have. One is exposed to a great deal more of the "insights" into higher education and this information is something to be collected.
Most students in an M.A. program hope to teach. It makes sense that one would want to know everything he or she can about teaching in higher education. There are hundreds of sites that can help, some are free and others one must pay for. Many have graduate student rates that are much cheaper and easier to obtain. Joining these institutions, websites, email lists, and discussions will only open one's mind to what teaching is really like: the struggles, the soul crushing despair, the loss of hope for tenured positions, and the love these long-time professors share with anyone willing to read is invaluable. Why not join in the academic discussions, discover ones colleagues, what they have to say, and how to manage a way through academia to a tenured position with benefits and the ability to pay off student loan debt. The following are some websites for general interest:
Remember, all the sites that require payment (membership) will most likely have publications you can submit papers to. This membership also allows you to claim it on your resume. How are you going to get a teaching job if you are not part of the larger discussion? Memberships to these and many more pedagogical sources can only bolster your knowledge and chances at a job. All of these resources have Twitter accounts. I would suggest following them and getting updates. It keeps you up to date with what is going on in academia, something that requires work and dedication; teaching techniques, classroom ideas, and teaching theory does not just come to you in your sleep. Stay in touch with those in academia because they are the ones who make the rules, who push the boundaries of those rules, and who knows, you might just be the one who comes up with a new technique and you will add to the academe.
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Alpha Tau Sigma at
Cal Baptist Archives
May 2015
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