Teaching Scholars Program
What is the Teacher Scholar Program? The purpose of this program is to give Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience majors experience in educational programs and knowledge about the scientific basis for educational strategies. It is also a great way to learn more about neuroscience – we often learn material better when we have to teach and explain concepts to others. This is a great experience for students who are thinking about a teaching career, and also for those thinking about a graduate program. As we developed this program, we discovered that many of our current PhD students and faculty had taken part in this type of program when they were undergraduate majors.
Who is eligible? All Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience majors who will be juniors or seniors in the semester for which they are applying. To select students for the program, we will look at GPA, performance in neuroscience courses, interest in the program, match with available courses, and future career plans.
What is involved in the program? Scholars will register for PSYC 483 for 3 credits (0 credit and honors options are also available). Scholars will have a weekly group meeting with the Director of the program to discuss instructional techniques, ethics and complete training in specific topics. Scholars will be assigned to an undergraduate course and will be required to attend lectures for their assigned course. They will work with the instructor of that course to develop a plan that involves student interaction (review sessions, discussion groups, tutoring) and course feedback (writing, assignments, exams). Students will complete brief observations/reflections as part of the 483 course. Some students may also elect to complete a LAUNCH teaching capstone project as part of their scholars experience. Teaching scholars can expect an evaluation and/or letter of recommendation upon successful completion of the course.
How do you apply? The application for Fall 2021 is now available! Applications for the Fall 2021 semester are due by April 30th, 2021. To apply, click here to complete the online Teacher Scholar application. You will provide some basic information and answer some questions about your interest in the program. All applications will be reviewed shortly after the deadline, and you will be notified of your application status within two weeks of the deadline. If you have any questions, feel free to email Dr. Smallman (rsmallman@tamu.edu)