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English Language Center
  2. Programs
  3. English for Academics and Professionals
  4. International Teaching Assistants
  5. Communication
  6. ITA Communication

International Teaching Assistant Communication

International Teaching Assistant (ITA) Communication is designed by the Vanderbilt University English Language Center (ELC) to enhance English communication and teaching skills for ITAs in the context of US university settings. The objective of the course is to strengthen academic speaking ability, pronunciation, and ITA-related communication strategies. Students receive feedback on assignments in class and in individual meetings with the instructor.

Activities include:

  • pronunciation activities
  • presenting a syllabus
  • explaining a visual
  • defining terms and extended definitions
  • outlining a presentation
  • presenting a process
  • presenting a topic of general interest
  • leading discussions
  • conducting mini-lectures

Focus of the course is on:

  • increasing intelligibility
  • increasing fluency
  • increasing accuracy
  • improving public-speaking skills
  • improving lecturing and discussion skills
  • improving ability to interact with undergraduate students
  • preparing and using visual aids
  • asking and answering questions effectively

ITA Communication introduces students to aspects of Academic Speaking and Pronunciation (e.g., discussions, group and individual activities, and presentations).