Expert Answers
1.How should I ask students to address me?
Answer from Dr. Kumar "In academia, it is a common practice that students address faculty members as Dr. or Professor __ (Last name of the faculty member). However, students prefer calling the TAs with their first name, primarily because TAs are also students, i.e., their colleagues. If you prefer to be called by a certain name, it is perfectly fine to inform the class at the beginning of the semester. Some names are particularly difficult to pronounce. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you inform your students how to pronounce your name. "
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2.How should I interact with students if I already know one of my students prior to my teaching? What is the line between friends and being friendly? Answer from Dr. Dollinger "As much as possible, avoid dual relationships. If the person were a good friend, I would suggest that they consider another section. Alternatively, you could discuss the awkwardness of the dual relationship (that you would need to treat them for the duration as a student not a friend; that you'd prefer not to jeopardize the friendship, say, if they earned a lower than desired grade). As a psychologist, I have had former child clients show up in my undergrad class 10-15 years later. This was equally uncomfortable at first but, at this point, I would say is less awkward than the close friend scenario. "
Answer from Dr. Kumar
"Professionally! Remember, students are your Clients and it is your responsibility to give the best professional service to your Clients. I recommend an informal, professional meeting atmosphere in the classroom where everybody contributes to the understanding of the topic. When you are given an assignment as a TA, it is expected that you will perform your duties professionally, fairly, and ethically. This demands that you treat all students in your class equally without special treatment to anyone. So, if some of the students in your class are your friends, you do not need to do anything special but treat them the same way you are treating the other students. This will automatically draw a clear line between your friendship and your work. Remember, a true friend would never like you to do anything which may spoil your reputation. "
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Answer from Dr. Kumar
"Professionally! Remember, students are your Clients and it is your responsibility to give the best professional service to your Clients. I recommend an informal, professional meeting atmosphere in the classroom where everybody contributes to the understanding of the topic. When you are given an assignment as a TA, it is expected that you will perform your duties professionally, fairly, and ethically. This demands that you treat all students in your class equally without special treatment to anyone. So, if some of the students in your class are your friends, you do not need to do anything special but treat them the same way you are treating the other students. This will automatically draw a clear line between your friendship and your work. Remember, a true friend would never like you to do anything which may spoil your reputation. "
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