To bottom of page (to schedule a videotaping session).

Frightening as it may be at first thought, a videotape of your teaching is an incredibly valuable tool to help you become a clearer, more effective communicator. All TAs and AIs can sign up for a classroom videotaping and a follow-up consultation with a TAC (Teaching Assistant Consultant), free of charge. Supervising faculty do not need to be involved, but they can be, if you desire.

When, during the course of my teaching, is the best time to be videotaped?
This is entirely up to you, and it really doesn't matter. If you are new to teaching, it may be especially helpful to be videotaped once early on in your teaching, then again near the end of the quarter, to assess your improvement as an instructor.

What happens after I schedule a videotaping?
A TAC will contact you to confirm your appointment, answer any questions you have, and schedule a follow-up consultation and playback session.

What happens during the videotaping?
A TAC will come into your classroom, set up a camera near the back of the room, then do nothing but observe and run the camera. To put your students at ease, it may be helpful for you to explain to them why the camera is there - you want information about your own teaching, and the camera is there primarily to watch you, not them.

What happens during the follow-up consultation session?
You will view your videotape with a TAC who will help you interpret the 'data' on your video, and offer you constructive advice and strategies to consider in your continuing development as an effective instructor

What type of information will I get from a videotaping of my class?
Videotaping your teaching is just one method of 'gathering data.' When you examine the videotape, i.e., your 'data', there are generally three types of information you can glean from what you see.

1. The videotape is very useful in letting you know how good your presentation skills are. For example, does your boardwork need improvement? Do you speak too fast? Too slow? Do you ever make eye contact with your students?
2. How well do you communicate the material to the students? A video is not so good at providing you with this information - generally, it requires considerable interpretation. But it is something you still want to look for in your teaching.
3. A video can give you a general sense of what it's like to be in your classroom, and an idea of the overall effectiveness of your instruction. Are your students understanding the material? This is not so easily interpreted from the video, but the video can prompt discussion regarding effective teaching strategies.

What can I use the tape for after I've watched it?
Bring a blank videotape in to the TRC, and you may keep the video of your teaching. You may wish to use it in the future to evaluate changes in your teaching style and ability, or include it in your portfolio if you apply for a teaching position.

To schedule a session, fill out the video REQUEST FORM. A TA Consultant will contact you to set up the appointment and arrange details.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Videotapings provided by the Teaching Resources Center are intended to improve your teaching skills. All videotapings are accompanied by a consultation with the TAC who taped you. If you would like a videotaping without a consultation, please contact MediaWorks at 752-2133 or go to http://mediaworks.ucdavis.edu.