A Targeted PhysTEC Project: Physics Learning Assistants at NC State University

The NCSU "Targeted" PhysTEC Project focuses on a Learning Assistant Program but does not include features such as a Teacher-in-Residence. The LA's take a Seminar on Teaching Physics and are employed in the introductory Physics for Engineers course and in the Physics Tutorial Center. Although it is a small project, NCSU PhysTEC has increased the visibility and interest in teaching among the undergraduates and has enhanced our large introductory physics teaching program. The training of Physics graduate TA's has also been upgraded and extended by partnering with PhysTEC. Unfortunately, the physics teacher production from NCSU has not increased during the five semesters of the project. We will discuss the internal challenges (e.g. degree requirements) and external obstacles (low salaries and turmoil in public education) and how we might seek to overcome them.