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ERIC Number: ED349898
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1992
Pages: 17
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Using Imagination To Encourage ITAs To Take Risks.
Torkelson, Kris
Information from a survey of temperament and learning styles was used with International Teaching Assistants (ITAs) at the University of Minnesota in an ITA development course to enhance their communication skills and teaching abilities. The study used the Keirsey Temperament Sorter, a condensed version of the Myers-Briggs Temperament Inventory, with 35 ITAs and compared their responses with the general population of Americans who have taken the survey. All the ITAs were from Asian cultures and were temporarily in the United States for graduate study. The results indicated that over 65 percent appeared introverted and more than 90 percent preferred working with concepts and ideas rather than with people. Using this information with the 35 ITAs in a development course, the participants responded well to the information and appeared to understand the American students' expectation for interaction with teachers. An exploration of the Asian philosophy of education shed light on cultural differences with Americans. Practical exercises for ITAs called "Thinking on Your Feet" were offered and assisted participants in improving their communication skills and strengthening their confidence. Extensive appendixes contain materials from the ITA development course. (JB)
Publication Type: Opinion Papers; Speeches/Meeting Papers
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Assessments and Surveys: Myers Briggs Type Indicator
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A