Graduate Teaching Award Winner: Leila Mohammadi
My name is Leila Mohammadi, and I am currently pursuing a PhD in Mathematics. Since 2017, I have served as a part-time instructor and teaching assistant at Dalhousie University. I have had the opportunity to teach undergraduate math courses as the main instructor six times, in both online and in-person formats, and have led numerous tutorial classes. Additionally, I have provided support to students from diverse backgrounds through one-on-one sessions in the Mathematics and Statistics Learning Center, the Indigenous Student Center, and the Inclusive Pathways to Medical Professions program. Recognizing that math is often perceived as a challenging subject, I am dedicated to making it more accessible and easier to understand for my students.
Throughout my teaching journey at Dalhousie University, I have faced several challenges and gained extensive experience in learning and teaching. As an international student, the first significant challenge was the language barrier and adjusting to a different educational system. Although I knew math by heart, in my first weeks at Dal, I struggled with the English vocabulary required to explain mathematical concepts effectively. I overcame this obstacle by listening to the students and colleagues, picking up the proper math vocabulary.
To adapt myself to the Canadian education system and enhance my teaching skills, I enrolled in the Certificate in University Teaching and Learning (CUTL) for graduate students offered by the Center for Learning and Teaching. Each component of this program contributed to improving my teaching abilities:
CNLT 5000 Course: Through the CNLT 5000 course, I took the first steps to identify my teaching values and prepare my first teaching statement. I learned about learning outcomes, designing a course, and active learning strategies.
Peer Observation: As part of the program requirements, I received constructive feedback from colleagues and mentors who observed my teaching. Their feedback and comments helped to identify my strengths and weaknesses in teaching.
Professional Development Workshops: Attending various workshops broadened my teaching pedagogy. providing me with valuable insights and practical strategies for effective instruction.
Throughout my teaching career at Dal, I encountered two unforeseen situations that advanced my skills. One of these was the quick transition to online learning and teaching during the pandemic, which provided me with the valuable opportunity to experience online teaching and co-teaching. The second occurred when my class was suspended due to the CUPE 3912 strike in the fall of 2022. Through these encounters, I developed critical skills including adaptability and flexibility, resilience, collaboration, teamwork, and technological proficiency.
Reflecting on my teaching experience, I would like to share some tips for new TAs starting their teaching journeys:
Mentorship: First and foremost, seek mentorship and ask for help without hesitation. Learning from experienced mentors can provide valuable guidance and insights to enhance your teaching effectiveness and professional growth.
Peer Observation: Observing other educators, having them observe your teaching, and receiving constructive feedback can immensely enhance your teaching skills by identifying strengths and areas for improvement.
Professional Development: Invest in professional development by attending workshops, exploring pedagogical strategies, and staying informed about current educational practices. Continuous learning enriches your teaching toolkit.
Work-Life Balance: More importantly, maintain a healthy work-life balance to sustain your enthusiasm and effectiveness in the classroom.
Focusing on these aspects will not only help you manage your teaching duties more effectively, but also significantly enhance your students' learning experiences. I wish you all the best of luck in your teaching endeavors at Dalhousie University.