Yale Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

Graduate Teaching Center

Frequently Asked Questions

I can’t make it to your workshops because of conflicting commitments. Is there anywhere I can get some advice on common teaching issues?

Yes! Check out our modules (link), which feature useful tips and strategies for everything from leading discussions in section to promoting diversity in the classroom.

What kind of background or teaching experience do I need to apply to be a GTC Fellow?

You are eligible to apply if you have had at least one semester of teaching at Yale. We provide all the training you will need to carry out your role as a GTC Fellow. Each year when we hire new fellows, teaching experience is just one of many factors we consider. These include passion for teaching, compatibility with the group, and whether we already have fellows representing your department.

What is a dean's excuse?  How do they work?

A dean’s excuse is provided to a student by his or her residential college dean. The purpose is to let you know that the dean has authorized the student to contact you about making arrangements for handing in late work or making up a missed lab or exam. If you have questions about a particular student situation, you may contact the dean directly.

I think my student may have plagiarized. What should I do?

Keep copies of all the evidence and present this to the course instructor. He or she has the authority to make decision about how to handle suspected plagiarism.

What information about teaching fellows is included in the online course evaluations?

Evaluations of teaching fellows are part of the course evaluation process. Your evaluations can be accessed here.