R124687

Just wondered if anyone could enlighten me on your knowledge as regards how many classes are taught by undergrads at IU?

I ask because I now have 5 months to ponder this good, inexpensive in-state University, versus an expensive elite school for my D. If she is accepted elsewhere, I know the decision time is short and I'm trying to pre-answer all our questions. I've heard much talk about how often elite schools use their grad students to teach many of the first two years' undergrad classes. I'm hearing it happens less frequently at public schools. But I'm sure it varies TREMENDOUSLY by school and subject matter.

Who has the scoop?

FYI...She will probably be in the College of Arts and Sciences (probably philosophy and/or physics), and she'll be in HCC if that matters (I know they're offered SOME smaller classes for certain studies, etc.).

Thanks!

maxellis

I have had 1 class taught by a grad student, and two discussion sections led by grad students and that has been it.

HHC doesn't have any classes taught by grad students.

ElizaB

I'm a freshman in HHC. Currently, two of my lectures (one is INTL-I100 and POLS-Y100) are taught by PhD students, and the discussion for I100 is also led by a grad student. Coincidentally, these are my two favorite classes and teachers. They are charismatic, exciting, and do seem to truly care about - and excel in - teaching. My other classes are all taught by professors with a PhD in their field or, in the case of my Spanish class, a Masters.

tayx63

I'm in Kelley, and all of my business classes thus far have been taught by professors. I'm also taking a few classes in the college of arts and sciences. Both of these classes are taught by professors-one with her PhD. One of these classes has a break-out discussion section once a week, and these are taught by PhD students. My experiences have been great with all of my professors and my associate instructor (AI). I haven't heard really any negative things about the teaching here.

SolidSnake961

only discussion sections sometimes are but other than that i have had no grad students teach

rrah

D has 6 classes. 4 are taught by full professors. The additional discussion section of one of the four is led by an upper level grad student, but I know he is told by the professor what to teach/discuss as the professor frequently refers to what will happen in the discussions. (This is an honors course) I think her 300 level foreign language class is taught by a PhD student, but he's been around long enough that his name appears in the schedule. (eg--it doesn't say staff) He also is good enough that D signed up for his section of a Foreign Lang class next semester. I believe her other class is also taught by a PhD student. She is also very good. For example, she offered to edit student papers if they emailed them to her by a particular deadline. That shows commitment to me.

Over the past decade or so IU grad students and IU have worked to improve the teaching quality of grad students. Workshops and other assistance is available. I've been told by at least one PhD student that some of the training is mandatory.