A teacher’s work is never done. A teacher not only fulfills the role of imparting knowledge, but he or she must also prepare their precious charges for tomorrow.
There cannot be too much individual attention. A teacher’s assistant is there to allow the teacher to give as much attention and guidance to the students as possible; the TA will therefore be a type of secretary, assisting according to the need; grading papers, bringing paperwork to or from the office, and generally assists the teacher with whatever is in their power to do.
Teaching assistant job profile
A teaching assistant’s job is well fitted for the individuals who are looking for a part time job – namely undergraduate and graduate students. These students are normally hired to assist the teachers with grading and other assorted paperwork. The interviews for these posts are quite different from the normal interviews, simply because the low rate of retention coupled with the great need. Therefore, it is difficult to find a suitable employee, and that works in your favor.
Teaching Assistant
Job Interview Questions with Answers
1. Experience and knowledge:
The interviewer may ask about your previous job experience and your knowledge. This will enable the interviewer to understand your basic professional background and whether you would be able to handle the job or not. Although your experience may not be directly related, focus on your ability to follow directions, get tasks done quickly, attention to detail, etc.; skills required in any job.
2. Handle a crowd of students:
The teaching assistant is quite near to the students themselves when it comes to age. Therefore, the interviewer will first have to assess whether you can or cannot handle a crowd of students. Again, focus on your ability to work with your previous employer(s). If you have led any youth groups or have any counselor/teaching experience, draw on that.
3. Seriousness of the individual:
To gauge your seriousness of the individual, the interviewer may ask why you are actually seeking the job.
Therefore, the interviewer will first begin to gauge whether the individual is actually serious about the job or not. This can be asked via the simple question –
Why do you need the job, or why should we give you a job? Express your interest in the field of education, and your expectation to persevere for at least a semester. You may want to include your financial needs, but do not over emphasize this.
4. Difficult times in your last job:
The interviewer will ask about any difficult situations in your last job, related to work, which were solved by you by amicable means. This will prove to the interviewer whether you have any people skills. Make a list of such occurrences. Consult with a knowledgeable friend, or professor. Preferably someone who’s working! Select the best and prepare to present the anecdote briefly, and succinctly.
Once the interviewer is satisfied that you have all the skills needed for a teacher’s assistant, they may call you for a couple of more rounds before they finally select you for the job.
Good Luck!
Job Interviews for Teachers