Math Profs, Good Profs

You may have noticed that you aren't being taught by the same person every class you take. You may even have noticed that in each class you're taught in a slightly (or not so slightly) different manner. I'm sure you like some of these techniques better than others. Chances are your classmates do too.

If you really enjoy a certain lecture style then it might be a good idea to make it known. It might be a great idea. You'll be more likely to see more of the same if you tell instructors how best to reach you.

How are you supposed to do this you ask? There are a number of simple ways.

Choice 1: Write a glowing review on your end of term class evaluation.

Pluses: It's cheap, it's easy and you don't have to do anything you wouldn't do on a regular day (You DO attend lectures right?)

Negatives: Everyone isn't going to see your review. In fact, only the professor in question and a few others will actually know what you wrote so it isn't too likely that your favourite lecture style will be the newest pop-culture craze.

How: Go to class in the last few weeks. Fill out the form placed in front of you.

Choice 2: Nominate your prof for Instructor of the Year (IOY)

Pluses: It's pretty easy. There are forms outside the MathSoc office. They get there name on a nice plaque, the reasons for selecting them are released to the Math Faculty, and, as a whole, and professors may take a few pointers from what they hear.

Negatives: It requires walking to the third floor. Tell me your professor isn't worth that! Fill out a form when you come by to staple your assignments or photocopy notes!

How: Get a form at MathSoc (MC 3038) and fill it out before November 25th. Limited time offer. Act now.

Choice 3: Nominate your prof for the Distinguished Teaching Award (DTA)

Positives: It has university wide recognition and is an extremely prestigious award. Professors across campus will know that your instructor is truly an excellent teacher. A glowing example of what students look for to help them learn.

And not only that. It makes the entire Math Faculty look good. We can all use a little more of that.

Negatives: It requires work, but then so does teaching well. Doesn't your prof deserve a little effort?

How: The DTA is run by TRACE. They have an office (MC 4055) where applications can be dropped off. The application is free form so you should write a letter describing all the reasons your prof is the best candidate for the job. Additionally, get your friends to write letters. Then get grad students and faculty to write letters. MathSoc and the VPA will be glad to help you out here by talking to faculty and grad students. But you have to tell us who deserves their time and effort.

More information is available here:
http://www.adm.uwaterloo.ca/infotrac/dtahp.html
(As a side note, there is another award for teaching by a registered student. More information here:
http://www.adm.uwaterloo.ca/infotrac/taaward.html)

So, there you have it. Make yourself heard. Tell the world how to teach you. The more they know, the better job they'll do.

Make the effort. It'll be worth your while.