My name is Derek Bruff, and I am a preceptor in mathematics at Harvard
University. There are several preceptors here, and we are primarily
responsible for making sure that the service courses (calculus and linear
algebra) are well taught. The courses are taught in small sections (15-40
students, depending on the course), but the students in each course follow
the same syllabus, turn in the same homework problems, and take common
exams. The sections are taught primarily by preceptors and other junior
faculty members and by graduate students. Each course has a course head,
typically a preceptor, but occasionally another faculty member, who
coordinates the course. As a preceptor, I teach sections and occasionally
act as course head.
Since most sections are taught by graduate students and junior faculty, the
preceptors are also responsible for preparing and supporting these teachers.
We organize an apprentice program for first-year graduate students who are
not yet teaching. We also provide support for those who are currently
teaching through pre-semester orientations, term-time teaching seminars,
observations, and consultations.
We also train and supervise undergraduate course assistants. Each calculus
section is assigned one CA who grades homework, runs problem sessions, and
works in the tutoring center. In the past, this training has taken the form
of a pre-semester orientation. We are now consider term-time teaching
seminars as well.
Enough about me for now! I'm excited to hear about you!
Derek
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Derek Bruff, Preceptor
Department of Mathematics, Harvard University
Email: bruff(a)fas.harvard.edu
Web:
http://www.derekbruff.com/