Tips for Graduate Students Teaching Their First Course as the Main Instructor

Taking on the role of the main instructor for a course can be exciting and daunting. You’re responsible for shaping the class, guiding students’ learning, and building your own teaching record. To make this experience rewarding and manageable, here are some practical tips to help you succeed in your first solo teaching venture.

1. Collect Data to Improve and Show Growth as an Educator

Gathering feedback is crucial, not only to improve your teaching but also to demonstrate your commitment to becoming a better educator. A mid-semester feedback survey, for example, can provide valuable insights into what’s working and what might need adjustment. After collecting feedback, discuss it with your students. This helps build trust and shows that you value their input. Be honest about what you can realistically change and what you can’t. This open dialogue will enhance the classroom environment and help students feel more invested in the course.

2. Seek Out Resources from Past Instructors

If possible, connect with colleagues or past instructors who have taught the course. They may have syllabi, assignments, and lesson plans they’re willing to share. Even if you choose to modify the material, having access to these resources can save you time and give you a strong foundation for your own teaching. You’ll also get a sense of what’s worked in the past, which can guide you in designing an effective course.

3. Pace Yourself and Set Boundaries

It’s natural to feel pressure to go above and beyond as a new instructor. You care about your students, want them to succeed, and hope to build a strong teaching record. However, it’s essential to manage your workload to avoid burnout. Keep track of the time you spend on lesson planning, grading, and other teaching responsibilities. Be mindful not to over-extend yourself, especially if you’re juggling other responsibilities like research or coursework. Teaching well is about sustainability; set realistic boundaries and prioritize balance.

4. Be Strategic About Assignments

Assignments should be meaningful for students, but also manageable for you. When designing assignments, consider the grading workload you’ll face later. Think about what assignments will best support students’ learning goals without overwhelming you. Group work, for instance, can be a great option if appropriate for your course content. It promotes collaboration and can reduce the number of individual assignments you need to assess.

If you’re interested in introducing a creative assignment, use this opportunity to try one innovative project that gets everyone out of their comfort zone. Options like a comic book, fairy tale writing, or screenwriting assignment can make learning fun and memorable—but limit yourself to just one of these unique tasks so that you can balance novelty with feasibility.

5. Establish a Clear Relationship with Your Teaching Assistant (TA)

If you’re fortunate enough to have a TA, meet with them early in the semester to discuss expectations and divide responsibilities. Be clear about the TA’s role, whether it’s grading, facilitating discussions, or handling logistical tasks. Communicating openly will help you and your TA stay aligned throughout the semester, providing a smoother experience for both you and your students.

6. Be Yourself and Embrace Imperfections

Teaching your first course may not always feel like a grand success, and that’s okay. Aim to be authentic and comfortable with your teaching style. Let your personality come through, and know that not every class will be groundbreaking for you or your students. Embrace the learning process, be patient with yourself, and remember that teaching is an evolving skill.

7. Create a Consistent Routine for Class Structure

A consistent class structure, such as starting with a quick recap or question-and-answer session, can help both you and your students feel more comfortable. Routines create a sense of stability and make it easier for students to follow the flow of each session, which is especially helpful for your nervous energy in the beginning.

8. Use Technology to Streamline Your Teaching

There are many digital tools, from quiz apps to grading software, that can make your life easier. For example, using online platforms for assignments and grading can save time and help students track their progress. Interactive tools like Mentimeter or Padlet can also keep students engaged during lectures or discussions.

9. Stay Flexible and Open to Adjustments

No matter how well you plan, things may not always go as expected. If a particular lesson doesn’t resonate, or an assignment seems too challenging, don’t hesitate to make adjustments. Being adaptable and willing to learn from each class is key to improving your teaching skills over time.

10. Practice Self-Reflection After Each Class

Set aside a few minutes after each class to jot down quick notes about what went well and what you’d like to improve. This habit will help you fine-tune your teaching, track your growth, and prepare for future semesters. You can even start a teaching journal where you record these reflections.

11. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

Your department, mentors, or other teaching resources on campus can provide support. Whether it’s advice on handling a challenging class or tips for engaging students, reach out when needed. Most departments want new instructors to succeed, and many have resources or workshops for new teachers.

Your first time as an instructor is a chance to learn, grow, and connect with students in meaningful ways. By pacing yourself, collecting feedback, and keeping communication open, you’ll set the stage for a fulfilling and manageable teaching experience. Good luck!