Instructors at UBC
If you're an undergraduate student, you may find that Teaching Assistants (TA), in addition to professors, lead parts of your classes. The role of the TA varies in each class. Your TA may lead discussions, conduct labs, assist with lectures, grade assignments, hold office hours, or grade exams. TAs are usually graduate students at UBC.
Be sure to speak to your instructor (professor or TA) if you:
- Can't submit your assignment on time
- Don't understand a concept that was covered in class
- Are feeling challenged by your course load due to circumstances outside of the course (such as difficulties with English)
- Need more information about an essay, project, or other assignment
Most instructors hold office hours (regular times they will be in their offices, during which you can drop by). Office hours give you a chance to meet with your instructor to discuss course materials, assignments, your questions, and any concerns. If you can't drop by during office hours, schedule an appointment with your instructor for another time.
In Canada, student-faculty relationships tend to be informal and students call some instructors by their first names. Professors, however, don't generally socialize with students, and it is not appropriate for instructors to date students. Instructors also don't expect gifts from students and they may feel uncomfortable if presented with one.
Canadian students often challenge and question their instructors. This behaviour can seem rude to students from other countries, but in Canada, it is quite acceptable, even desirable at times, to respectfully disagree with your professor's opinions.
