Socialization experiences resulting from engineering teaching assistantships at Purdue University
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore and understand the types of socialization experiences that result from engineering teaching assistantships. Using situated learning as the theoretical framework and phenomenology as the methodological framework, this study highlights the experiences of 28 engineering doctoral students who worked as engineering teaching assistants (TAs), in response to the following research question: What socialization experiences do engineering doctoral students report going through as a result of being engineering TAs? Data was obtained via interviews (individual and focus group, with participants from various schools of engineering at Purdue University), informal observations, and supporting documents. These multiple data sources were analyzed and triangulated to find recurring themes in and characteristics of the graduate engineering TA experience. Participants in this study characterized their socialization experiences in the following categories: participation in TA training of different kinds, interactions with different groups of individuals, the undertaking of various types of TA responsibilities, the balancing of teaching and research, and the use and development of certain skills. In addition, some differences in experiences were found depending on type of TA appointment, stage of doctoral study, semesters as a TA, career goals, and engineering program.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Capobianco, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Educational sociology|Science education
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