Dean Knowles on Teaching Fellows

Return to main article:

The undergraduate spoke with Jeremy Knowles, dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, about the decision this spring to make modifications in the appointment of teaching fellows. According to Knowles: 

 "The discussion began with a concern about the ability of TFs to speak English. In a few departments, particularly in the sciences, graduate students routinely help with elementary courses soon after their arrival at Harvard. In the humanities, they often wait two or three years before they do any teaching. 

"The Faculty Council discussed this, and felt that we should be concerned with more than just [teaching fellows'] linguistic ability—we should be concerned with their teaching ability in general. 

"We therefore required each department to describe its plans for screening all TFs before they enter the classroom. We allowed departments either to use the Bok Center or to create their own programs since the expectations and demands upon TFs are somewhat discipline specific. My concern was that we should not put anyone unable to lead and teach in [charge of] an undergraduate section."


Read more articles by Jeremy Faro

You might also like

What of the Humble Pencil?

Review: At the Harvard Art Museums’ new exhibit, drawing takes center stage

Harvard Research Funding Will Resume, Government Signals

Notices of grant reinstatements follow a court ruling, but the Trump administration could still appeal. 

At Harvard College Convocation, an Emphasis on Open-Mindedness

Garber, other leaders sidestep politics but welcome international students.

Most popular

How MAGA Went Mainstream at Harvard

Trump, TikTok, and the pandemic are reshaping Gen Z politics.

Free Speech, the Bomb—and Donald Trump

A Harvard cardiologist on the unlikely alliances that shaped a global movement to prevent nuclear war

Explore More From Current Issue

Whimsical illustration of students rushing through ornate campus gate from bus marked “Welcome New Students.”

Highlights from Harvard’s Past

The Medical School goes coed, University poet wins Nobel Prize. 

Man splashing water on his face at outdoor fountain beside woman holding cup near stone building.

Why Heat Waves Make You Miserable

Scientists are studying how much heat and humidity the human body can take.

David McCord in suit reading a book at cluttered wooden desk in office filled with framed art and shelves.

The Pump Celebrates Its 85th Birthday

Giving Harvard traditions their due