I apologize for making another thread and being such a pain, but the "Ideal TA" thread's been locked, so I can't post it there. I have another (most likely my final) question regarding TA-duties, and how I can essentially be the best TA possible given my own shortcomings, etc...that's what the other thread was about.

So now as the Fall Semester comes to a close (and I mean really really soon!), I've been contacted regarding those 'teacher evaluation' forms, which are optional for TAs. Since I love student feedback, I naturally would like students to fill out this survey. It's great because it's anonymous and you get some good honest feedback.

But also...given that it's nearing the end of the semester, it's about time for nominations for teaching awards to start piling in...so I essentially have two questions:

1) How do I ensure students will try their best to leave me written comments? I know some students don't take those very seriously...but I'd really like the feedback so I can improve for future TAing jobs, and a 'number out of 10' doesn't really help me improve.

2) Is there any way I can ask for the teaching award nominations without seeming like it's all I care about? I'm going through the scenario in my head and it almost always sounds pretentious... I certainly don't put effort into TAing to win awards, but it would certainly be nice to win one if my students felt I deserve one (and judging from a lot of other TAs I know who seem really lazy, haha...). I just don't want to come off as a jerk or anything like that, do you have any advice on delivery? How can I 'slip this in' without sounding self-centered (keep in mind I have to explain HOW to nominate me, give a web address, etc.)


Thanks in advance for your responses. (:

(EDIT: Oh, I also wanted to mention to anyone who's curious that I went to a STAO "Teaching Science" conference in Toronto...unfortunate ly, they didn't have much for Math ): but it was very interesting! I recommend it for any future science teachers)

I'd really appreciate written comments on the evaluation form, as they will help me more than just a number?

After the course was over, a TA from a full year course last year emailed all of us and ask if we could nominate her for the award. She was really nice and said it would help her because she wants to get into teaching, and that she would really appreciate it. She said we didn't have to do anything if we didn't want to. We all did anyway because she was such a great TA.

Just be really nice and make sure you tell them they don't HAVE to do anything. If possible, wait until the course is completely over so they don't feel forced.

I bet every eye in the room will roll when you ask to be nominated. even if you dont notice it

To be honest, if I've ever actually had a good TA and they asked me to vote for them, I'd do it.

Unfortunately... well, we all know how the story goes.

Just ask. The people who care will understand, and the people who don't care will probably ignore you like they do for the rest of the class.