Learning Assistants (LAs) are undergraduate students that act as guides for students in physics courses. Positions are available for several courses such as PHYS 121, PHYS 122, and more.
Application Period
Applications typically open in April for the fall semester and in November for the spring semester.
Apply to the Physics Learning Assistant Program
Application Requirements
Applicants will be chosen on the basis of:
- GPA: Strong academic performance at UMBC (GPA > 3.0).
- Course Performance: Earned an A or B in the class you wish to assist.
- Passion: Interest in learning and helping introductory physics students.
- Reference: Recommendation by UMBC faculty member, teaching assistant (TA), or LA.
- Skills: Organization, written, and verbal communication skills.
Responsibilities
LAs typically contribute 6-8 hours per week to the program. Duties may include:
- Attending weekly instructional meetings
- Proctoring and grading
- Holding weekly help sessions
- Assisting in discussions or labs
- Assisting the instructor in-class
Required Coursework
All LAs are required to enroll in ENES 396 (Fundamentals of Teaching Fellow Scholarship). This is a 1-credit service-learning course designed for undergraduate teaching assistants to improve their STEM teaching.
Compensation
The LA position is an hourly student position with a pay rate of $15 per hour.
Contact Information
If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Cody Goolsby-Cole.