Under close supervision, help provide inspirational learning and instruct students through practical classes about experiments, systems and/or methods and protocols. This could be in a laboratory context but also in other contexts such as example classes, computer laboratories, field settings or in the virtual environment. Provide support to students engaged in such practical work. In this context, close supervision will usually mean that the member of academic staff responsible for the session will be in the class or available and contactable if required.
Responsibilities
To agree with the relevant lecturer what practical work is to be done and how the class should be conducted.
To support with teaching delivery such as laboratory work, support small classes (in person or on-line) with exercises and help students with practical work, project work or computer coding work
To prepare for the class by familiarising themselves with any protocols or other information required and ensuring that they have undertaken the relevant exercises and experiments themselves beforehand.
If required to conduct any demonstrations, to do so in such a way as to convey relevant information and outcomes clearly and accurately to students.
To provide pro-active support to students engaged in practical work, to answer their questions where possible and to help them overcome any problems encountered. This could include in an on-line learning environment as well as face to face.
To provide laboratory or other relevant skills coaching and/or instruction as required.
May be required to set up and prepare, as necessary, the relevant equipment, hardware, consumables, software etc. in advance of the class.
To undertake relevant administration associated with their practical support activity.
Where required, to undertake related practical assessment or marking of worksheets. This may be within the class or away from the class and subject to moderation by the responsible member of academic staff.
To feedback to the relevant lecturer and technical staff any problems encountered in class and any outstanding learning needs.
To maintain academic standards and work in accordance with university policies (e.g. regarding health and safety, and equal opportunities).
To support lecturers with digital provision as appropriate.
Line managed by
Lecturer on the course(s) on which demonstrating.
Line manager to
Not applicable.
Relationships and contacts
There will be contact with students, involving the effective passing on of information and providing support for their practical learning.
Contact with members of academic staff on the methodology and purpose of the practical work they are supporting.
Contact with technical staff in relation to laboratory arrangements.
Contact with administrative staff with respect to payments and contracts.
Qualifications, skills and experience
A degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject and usually studying for a higher degree.
Sufficient breadth and depth of knowledge and understanding in the discipline.
Knowledge of relevant health and safety requirements.
The ability to communicate information clearly.
Ability to solve problems encountered in practical learning.
Potential to stimulate and engage students in the learning process.
Good grasp of on-line learning environments and to be able to support effective use
Ability to work effectively with colleagues and students.
Ability to organise own time effectively, so as to meet deadlines and manage competing priorities.
